Accent On Tampa Bay #207, Feb/March 2015 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

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BayAreaRenFest.com

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Accent

On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 27, Issue 207 Feb/March, 2015 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Michael Martino Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Scout Stewart Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photos: Maroon 5 - Publicity photo Book of Mormon - Photo by David Scheinmann PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

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AM PUBLICATIONS St. Petersburg, FL (727) 577-5500

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LOCAL FOCUS Gala of the Royal Horses at Bradenton Area Convention Center - Sun, Feb 1 www.galaoftheroyalhorses.com/

Experience the excitement, splendor, and majesty of the Gala of the Royal Horses at the Bradenton Are Convention Center. The Gala of the Royal Horses is a spectacular show combining the most beautiful horses in the world with live performer creating a breathtaking event for the entire family. The Gala of the Royal Horses is a “must see” for horse lovers and this is the first time the show has performed in the United States.

Formula 2 Powerboat Regatta - Feb 6 - 7

www.BradentonAreaRegatta.com The Bradenton Area will host the inaugural Bra-

denton Area Riverwalk Regatta, a day of Formula 2 (F-2) powerboat racing featuring top Superleague drivers who will supercharge the Manatee River on February 7. The Regatta will include a mile-long loop course with half-mile straightaways and hairpin turns. Competing tunnel boats will explode from 0-100 mph in less than four seconds and hit four-plus G’s in the course turns. Racing starts with time trials and qualifying rounds, leading up to the championship, and spectators can catch all of the full-throttle action from Bradenton’s revitalized Riverwalk. In addition to powerboat racing, the event, which opens with a Christian concert on Feb. 6 at Sutton Park in Palmetto will offer plenty of opportunities for free, family, fun onshore as well, including: Jefferson Starship Concert: The celebrated musicians will perform as part of their 40th Anniversary Tour at the Riverwalk Pavilion and Event Area. Zambelli Fireworks: From the country’s “First Family of Fireworks,” a thunderous illumination that will radiate the skies in a 15-minute, musically choreographed, heart-pounding performance! XPOGO: One of the most exciting and pulsating professional extreme sports, Xpogo has become a huge spectator sensation. Athletes will perform highflying stunts (propelling to heights of 10 feet!) and flips that will captivate an audience of any age! K-9 Crew Dog Show: The ultimate high-energy canine thrill show will incorporate comedy, tricks and crowd-pleasing Frisbee catching routines into their always amusing and adorable exploits. Hydro-cross Jet Ski Racing: These stunt racing jet skiers set the standard for frenetic, fast, and furious free-for-alls in high-performance watercrafts.

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www.bayarearenfest.com/index.html

2015

37th Annual

he Bay Area Renaissance Festival is a long-standing tradition whose 36th season begins on February 22 and ends on April 6, 2014. The Festival is open weekends, as well as Festival Friday, April 4, 2014. The Festival is open from 10 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 pm rain or shine. Theme Weekends: Wine, Chocolate & Romance - Feb 14-15. Wine, Chocolate, and Romance weekend kicks off the opening of the 2014 Bay Area Renaissance Festival. Patrons are invited to treat themselves and to fall in love as they enjoy a chocolate festival and romantic getaway. Highland Fling - Feb 21-22. Celebrate your Scottish heritage at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival during the Highland Fling weekend. The Highland Games will have you cheering for your favorite athlete in this 8 series event. Buccaneer Beer Fest - Feb 28 & March 1. Bring your furry friends and pirate pals. This weekend will showcase pet rescue groups, pet training demonstrations and contests for dogs. Flight of Fantasy - March 7-8. This weekend will feature a world market and entertainment from around the globe. Also all individuals and dance troupes are invited to the Florida State Belly Dance Championship. Shamrocks & Shenanigans - March 14-15. Transport to Ireland by visiting the Celtic Village, where you can find local Irish vendors and fun for all ages. Watch the Highland Games or kick up your heels with traditional Irish music and dance. High Seas Adventure - March 21-22. Experience Traders Port full of spices, jewelry and clothing by merchants from far away lands. Is your beard the envy of all shipmates? Prove it in the Beard Competition. Festival Friday - March 27. Festival Friday brings unique educational, shopping and entertainment opportunities. School Day is a field trip destination for K-12 students, with lessons in music, costuming, combat and more. Barbarian BBQ Bash - March 27-29. Put your taste buds to the challenge and eat like a barbarian in the all new Turkey Leg Eating Contest. Make your way through the Barbarian Market where you will find BBQ pit masters preparing for Sunday afternoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BBQ Championships.

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2nd Annual LOCALTOPIA, “A Community Celebration of All Things Local” - Sat. Feb 7 www.KeepSaintPetersburgLocal.org/Localtopia

Keep Saint Petersburg Local, commemorates its 3-Year Anniversary with the 2nd Annual Localtopia, featuring over 100 vendors/participants from St. Pete’s independent businesses for arts and culture,

shopping, eating and drinking, health & wellness plus service providers and non-profits. Local craft beer garden with the “Drink Like A Local” draft beer truck serving beers from St. Pete and other Florida craft breweries. “Local Food Court” with local restaurants and Local Buds. Live music/entertainment all day on the Williams Park bandstand. VILLAGES: Arts Village, Family Village with special, engaging experiences, Skate Village featuring vendors, skate ramp and tricks by Schoolyard Skatepark. St. Pete Indie Market Village, Free Bike Valet, Live screen printing of Keep Saint Petersburg Local T-shirts including commemorative/special editions. Get your picture taken in “Stella,” the vintage car (1935 Plymouth) retrofitted with a photo booth in the back seat. MONSTER JAM - Sat. Feb 7 www.MonsterJam.com Monster Jam, the monster truck series, makes its return to the Raymond James Stadium for a completely new show on February 7th. Monster Jam attracts crowds of more than 100,000 fans for the combined two events each year. Sixteen Monster Jam monster trucks will compete in side-by-racing, an obstacle course, and the fan-favorite freestyle

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competition. This is an entirely different line-up of race teams and drivers, competing on an entirely new race track, than the show presented on January 17th – an all-new experience for consumers. Gates Open at 5 p.m. Opening Ceremonies at 6:00 p.m. Racing Starts at 7 p.m. Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33607.

Pet Resource Center’s First Saturday Celebration Adoption Fair - Sat. Feb 7 www.HillsboroughCounty.org/Pets

Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center, the County’s animal shelter and the First Place for Pets, invites the community to a festive First Saturday Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. February’s event will offer family-friendly fun with exhibitors, free games, a bounce house, food trucks, and pet adoption specials. The pet adoption fair will also offer attendees the chance to spin the wheel for prizes – and for prices on adoption fees. All adoptions include spaying/neutering, vaccinations, County license tag, and micro-chip with free chip registration. To raise awareness of the Pet Resource Center display at the Florida State Fair Expo Hall, free Fair passes will be given away every hour during the First Saturday Celebration shelter event on Feb. 7. Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center is often the first place to receive the community’s lost and surrendered animals, and the shelter hopes to be the first place adopters come to select a new pet. Hillsborough County’s Pet Resource Center at 440 N. Falkenburg Road, Tampa. (813) 744-5660.

OSCAR Red Carpet Live pre-show telecast at the Tampa Theatre Feb 22 • www.tampatheatre.org/

ow in its 16th year at Tampa Theatre, Hollywood Awards Night has become a tradition that Tampa’s film fans look forward to. It’s an evening where guests get the star treatment with a red-carpet arrival and elegant VIP reception. And celebrating Hollywood’s biggest night of the year has never been more exciting than watching the awards live on the Theatre’s big screen. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with the Red Carpet Reception, Including a limo ride around the block and a walk along the red carpet past adoring fans and paparazzi, with “Roan Jivers” announcing your star-studded arrival. Once inside, patrons can sample scrumptious appetizers, get hair and makeup touch-ups by the professionals from Paul Mitchell the School, and peruse silent auction items representing local businesses. Guests are encouraged to show off their star status with a movie-themed costume, or let the glamour of Hollywood inspire an outfit.

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Brides For The Arts Wedding Expo at the Largo Cultural Center - Sun, Feb 8 www.largoarts.com/

The Largo Cultural Center will host its first annual wedding expo on Sunday, February 8 from 12-4pm. The Center will team up with wedding and event professionals in the Tampa Bay area to transform its event space into a fantasy wedding wonderland filled with beautiful decor. Couples looking to tie the knot will have the opportunity to interact with selected and unique vendors from various categories and see the hottest trends of 2015. (727)587-6751.

2nd Annual Mardi Gras in the EDGE - Sat, Feb 14 www.edgedistrict.org This all-day community celebration spans the entire EDGE District, stretching from Dr. MLK Jr. Street to 16th Street, and from 1st Avenue North to 1st Avenue South in St. Petersburg. Businesses throughout the District are participating with special contests, door prizes, discounts, live music, or other activities. Ricky P’s Orleans Bistro kicks it all off the night before, with a Louisiana crawfish boil and the Back Track Blues Band. Saturday’s celebration this year sports a “Purple Reigns” theme. Participating EDGE businesses will be marked with purple balloons by their doors, and this year’s parade will be decked out in purple. The Purple Reigns Second Line Parade will gather at Ricky P’s at 3 pm, then begin its march through the EDGE District at 4 pm. After the parade, Ricky P’s will hold a Mardi Gras costume contest at 5 pm, followed by a band playing Cajun Zydeco music at 6 pm. 727-329-8869.

Feb 28 - March 1 www.amaliearena.com

n a captivating combination, Master Magician Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse join forces with professional illusionist Zach Williams for a magical production on stage. Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Magic Show features grand illusions and favorite Disney characters, including Donald Duck and Goofy; Cinderella and her Fairy Godmother; Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter; and beloved Disney princesses Jasmine, Belle and Snow White.From the breathtaking levitation of Minnie and Jasmine to the transformation of Cinderella’s rags into riches in a split second, Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Magic Show gives families a whole new way to experience Disney magic. Adults and children alike will delight in this show.

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The Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, over 500,000 visitors enjoy the Festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce and, of course, its world-famous strawberry shortcake. The 2015 Florida Strawberry Festival, inviting patrons to “Come Join The Party!” will be held Feb. 26 through March 8, 2015 in Plant City, Fla. \ There is a wider variety of entertainment this year than ever before, with classic country, today’s country, Christian, 60s, R&B, rock, pop and an Academy Award winner. Tckets for admission and for headline entertainment shows can be purchased online. Free seating for each concert is also available in the Morrow Steel Free Grandstand located at the back of the Wish Farms Soundstage and is available on a first come, first seated basis. Headline entertainment lineup is as follows: Thurs, Feb. 26

Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra

Tues, March 3

Ronnie Milsap, Sara Evans

Bobby Vinton, Alabama

Wed, March 4

Ricky Skaggs, Craig Morgan

Fri, Feb. 27

Mel Tillis, Scotty McCreery

Thurs, March 5

Tommy Dorsey Orchestra

Sat, Feb. 28

MercyMe

Oak Ridge Boys, Newsboys

Kevin Costner & Modern West

Fri, March 6

Loretta Lynn, Boyz II Men

Sun, March 1

Brett Eldredge, Hunter Hayes

Sat, March 7

Dan + Shay, John Legend

Mon, March 2

Sawyer Brown

Sun, March 8

Parmalee, REBA

Happy Together Tour

www.flstrawberryfestival.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

24th Annual Dunedin Parade - Feb 17

Mardi

Gras

www.dunedinmardigras.com/

The 24th Annual Dunedin Mardi Gras Parade and Festival will take place on Feb 17 in Downtown Dunedin, celebrating the historic tradition of Mardi Gras with food, music and fun. The event kicks off at 4 pm in the Pioneer Park Pavilion with music beginning at 5:30 p.m. Festivities will last until 11 pm and then spill over into local pubs and restaurants until closing time – the official after party will be held at Club Blur. This year’s festivities will include: Music from Gumbo Boogie and Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas; Miss Mardi Gras Queen pageant; Vendors spread out along Main Street; Food from great local restaurants and food trucks lined throughout the streets; Craft beer trucks sponsored by Great Bay Distributors; and Family friendly fun. The highlight of the 24th Annual Dunedin Mardi Gras Parade and Festival is a parade featuring 50 unique and colorful floats. Admission to the parade is free and a VIP pass is available for a fee.

2015 AMSOIL Arenacross at the Amalie Arena - Feb 21-22 www.amaliearena.com AMSOIL Arenacross, featuring Ricky Carmichael’s Road to Supercross, is the most intimate

arena-based off-road motorcycle racing championship on the planet. At the Amalie Arena, Sat, Feb 21 hosts professional class racing starting at 7 p.m. 14

and Sun, Feb 22 hosts amateur class racing starting at 12 p.m. AMSOIL Arenacross brings edgeof-your-seat thrills and captivating competition to fans across the country with two Main Events during each night of action, head-to-head bracket racing, and the dramatic Race to the Championship, a playoff-inspired showdown to crown the champion. The Amalie Arena floor will be covered in 170 truckloads of soil, ultimately evolving into a sculpted, man-made dirt battleground that features air-inducing jumps and logic-defying obstacles. Attending fans will have the chance to meet the stars of the sport and get autographs during the pre-race Track Party before the Saturday professional event from 5-6 p.m. 11th Annual Gulfport’s Get Rescued Sat, Feb 28 www.GulfportMA

The Get Rescued evening celebration, Tails at Twilight, is a component of a day of festivities that begin with Gulfport’s Get Rescued, a street festival and fundraiser held on Beach Blvd. on the same day. In the evening, after the pets have gone to bed, all are invited to a lively evening of fun for humans that will also donate to the important cause of animal rescues. The evening will include dancing and live music, catered hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and drawings. Proceeds from ticket sales, after expenses, will be donated to rescue groups participating in the evening event. Live and silent auctions will offer a chance to support participating non-profit rescue groups with a variety of auction items up for bids including travel, hotel stays, art, wine and food, pet accessories, restaurant gift certificates, an African Safari and much more. Tickets for the Get Rescued Evening Celebration are a $25 donation. Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. South.

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PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship TOURNAMENT - March 9 - 15 www.ValsparChampionship.com A great cast of PGA TOUR pros will compete over four days of competition for a winner’s haul of 500 FedExCup points and a winner’s prize of more than $1 million. The strong field includes Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose, Jim Furyk, Matt Kuchar and Adam Scott who are ranked among the top 10 players in the world. John Senden is the defending champ. Beyond the golf action, the tournament will feature the first Valspar LIVE! event with country act The Band Perry on Saturday evening after play is concluded. The concert, whose admission is free for all those holding tickets for Saturday, will be held on the Osprey Driving Range. Other activities include the Family Fun Zone, the Hooters Owl’s Nest at the 12th and 13th hole, the Valspar Color Experience and the Pinch A Penny Birdies for the Brave Military Outpost. The tournament will raise significant funds for area charities and feature free admission for all children age 15 and under with a ticketed adult.

petergillisinsurance.com

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COOLSTUFF! SNAP REMOTE

Strike a Pose and Snap www.urbanoutfitters.com/

This is a smart little device for the perfect selfie. Get in the picture and snap sweet shots from your phone courtesy of this little remote control. The tiny, two-button device is super simple to use.Just download the free app so you can activate your smartphone shutter. The remote comes complete with a removable stand so you can prop up your phone and get the precise pic you want. It works with distances up to 3 feet.

BEARDSKI

GOLF GIFTS

Unique Gifts For The Golfer www.inthesandgolf.com

In The Sand Golf was created by Mary Whitworth, a pilot and golf lover. After flying over Florida golfcourses, she noticed some of the golf course sand traps were shaped liked letters of the alphabet. She has now captured the entire alphabet with photos of the sand traps. Some of the traps have rakes, golfcarts and golfers in and around them. Spelling golfers names, words and sayings, she has launched a business creating mugs, totes, prints, poker chips (ball markers), coasters and a future of endless items to place these letters onto. Have your name, your club or golf references printed on any of these products. Great gift for the golfer!

Fun Yet Practical Ski Mask

www.beardski.com

Now you can look extra-cool while keeping warm on the slopes or riding your Harley. Beardski is a onesize-fits-all insulated ski mask with comfortabel lined neoprene, woven thermal fleece and a 12â&#x20AC;? synthetic beard. The easy to wear mask holds securely in place, but is easy to remove. The design covers the ears, face and neck from the harshest of cold-weather conditions. Get a couple of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;em for your different moods.

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Cartoloji Prints and Throw Pillows Artful and Colorful Global Designs www.cartoloji.com/

Cartoloji combines a passion for art with a love for the world creating iconic abstract maps that are stylish and fun. Cartoloji has a collection of artful & colorful pillows and prints made in the USA and eco-friendly. Each piece is a sophisticated abstract design from artist/cartographer Bhaval Shah Bell, whose works are inspired by her life long journey from Asia to Africa and now, the US. The pillows celebrate the cities, states and regions of the globe. Pillows are available in two sizes and three colorways — all made of certified organic cotton printed with eco-friendly ink. Prints are produced on acid-free paper (matting/framing optional). If after browsing through their website you have not found what you were looking for, Cartoloji will create the iconic map-art prints or pillows you’d like.

RENNY

Smartphone Hub & Ringer

www.olenstechnology.com/product/renny-home/ An important cell call at home goes unanswered because a phone ringtone is too low, the phone is out of reach, or it is muffled in a pocket, briefcase, drawer or car. Sound familiar? No worries. Olens Technology has the Renny HOME and Renny JR. products designed with technologies to help make sure cell phone rings get heard and answered. The Renny models offer a range of up to 200 feet, always on auto-connect, built-in selectable ringtones for loud and clear call notification, and more. Renny JR. connects one phone within 150 feet, forever auto connects and has multiple loud selectable ringtones. The Renny JR. also notifies users of text and email notifications, and streams music from any smartphone with its powerful and clear loudspeaker. Renny HOME is a stand-alone base station & smartphone ringer that automatically connects up to two mobile phones wirelessly when within 200 feet - without using a landline or home phone system and there are no monthly fees or service charges. Renny HOME announces the name of the caller, allows users to handle incoming calls handsfree by speaking “answer” or “ignore” out loud, select loud built-in ringtones, and stream music from a smartphone with its quality speaker. Renny Ringer smartphone hub and ringer works anywhere in a home or office by automatically connecting wirelessly to any mobile phone within a 200 foot line of site range. The rechargeable Renny is always on and ready and works unnoticeably in the background until it is needed. Many Blue tooth speakers answer a phone. Unfortunately most require the user to manually connect every time they use it. Worse yet, when connected to the speaker the phone doesn’t work, because the speaker “steals” the call. Renny eliminates these problems, and packs many phonefriendly features into a little package. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

OUTDOOR MARKETS & EVENTS

ST. PETERSBURG SATURDAY MORNING MARKET - Oct - May Located in Al Lang Stadium parking lot, Hours: 9 am - 2 pm. A wide variety fresh food, plants and crafts including: locally grown fresh produce and herbs. Wide selection of regular & organic fruits and vegetables; Prepared Foods such as BBQ Turkey, smoked seafood, pickled vegetables, gourmet cheeses, fruit smoothies; Plants, Flowers, Fresh Herbs; Hand-crafted House wares & Gifts. www.saturdaymorningmarket.com

GET DOWNTOWN FIRST FRIDAY ST. PETE At the heart of downtown St. Petersburg between 2nd and 3rd Street South, every First Friday of the month, Central Avenue is transformed into a Block Party between 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Meet up with old and new friends and enjoy some of the best Jazz and oldies in the Tampa Bay area. There’s plenty of great food and fine dining in the area. Enjoy the free live music in a unique, convenient, and safe environment. www.firstfridaystpete.com

Fresh Market at Wiregrass - 1st & 3rd Sat of each month, year round (except Nov, Dec & Jan only on 1st Sat) Held at the Shops at Wiregrass, open-air retail and entertainment destination located on the corner of State Road 56 and Bruce B. Downs Blvd in Wesley Chapel, FL. 80-100 vendors. Local food, crafts, live music. 10am - 3pm. www.TampaBayMarkets.com

Corey AVE SunDay Market - Oct - May Corey Ave between Boca Ciega Ave and Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach. Local vendors sell a variety of locally produced and homemade produce, plants, take home foods, ready to eat lunch bites, hand crafts, eco-friendly and fair trade products and more. Enjoy a morning of live music, shopping, and breakfast, brunch or lunch at an area restaurants– 10am - 3pm. www.CoreyAve.com

Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village - 1st Sunday Of The Month Year Round Hours: 10am - 3pm. Vendors selling fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted and eco-friendly products. Conventional and hydroponic produce, homemade take home foods such as breads, pastries, gluten free items, pies, prepared entrees, sandwiches, ethnic specialties; handcrafts, eco friendly products & fair trade items. 742 South Village Circle, Tampa, FL 33604. www.hydeparkvillage.net/

GULFPORT TUESDAY FRESH MARKET - All Year Vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, seafood, Florida beef, and desserts. Also hand-made items, jewelry, art work and more. Live music. 9am - 3pm, Oct - May; 9am - 2pm, June - Sept. www.gulfportma.com

NORTH TAMPA MARKET 2nd Saturday, Year Round Hours: 10am - 2pm. 100 vendors located at Carrollwood Cultural Center. Local, organic, hydroponic and conventional produce, florida plants, herbs, flowers, organic food/supplies, locally made jams, jellies, salsa, dips, seasonings, sauces and oils, hand crafts, live Music, bungee jumping bounce pad. www.tampabaymarkets.com

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Dunedin Downtown Market - Nov - June Fri and Sat of each week during the months of Nov thru June, rain or shine, 9 AM to 2 PM. The market features vendors with an emphasis on local goods. Gourmet takehome foods, ready to eat lunch bites, produce - local and organic, plants, cheese, hand crafts, jewelry, artwork and live music. Pioneer Park in downtown Dunedin. www.TampaBayMarkets.com

GANDY’S SAT MORNING Market - Nov - May Mixed Farmers Market atmosphere with handcrafters, local farm produce, baked artisan breads, plants and more. No GMO’s. Market is mixed with arts, crafts, jewelry, home décor and more. live music. 4411 West Gandy Blvd., Tampa (between Westshore and Manhattan). 10am - 3pm. info@gandymarket.com

YBOR CITY SATURDAY MARKET - Year Round Oct-April, 9am - 3pm; May-Sept, 9am - 1pm. gourmet foods & sauces, fresh baked breads, prepared foods, herbs & plants, pet treats, honey, fine cigars, unique gifts, photography, artwork, jewelry, woodworking, bath & body products, candles & more. Free Parking, Free Admission, Pets Welcome. www.TampaBayMarkets.com

SWEETWATER SUNDAY Market - Oct - May Sweetwater Farm Stand sells fruits and vegetables from organic farms. Vendors have environmentally-friendly and handcrafted products, farm-fresh eggs, raw milk, artisan breads, organic coffee, Florida-native plants, organic clothing, handmade arts and crafts, gardening books, body care products and more. Workshop Series, Live Music Series, Sunday Yoga. Off of Hanley Road and Comanche Avenue. www.sweetwater-organic.org/

Madeira Beach WED Morning Market Weds, Year Round The Mid-Week Madeira Beach Morning Market is open Weds from 9 am-2 pm. 80+ vendors including growers, gourmet foodies, artists and crafters. Live music. Free, family and pet friendly. On Madeira Way between Gulf Boulevard and the Tom Stuart Causeway. www.thebeachmarkets.com/

Madeira Beach Mid-Month SAT Sunset Market & Music Festival - Sat eves, Year Round The Mid-Month Sunset Market and Music Festival will run one Sat each month from 4 pm-9 pm in conjunction with the monthly Cornhole Tournament starting Nov 15. Free, family and pet friendly. The Sunset Market will also feature a kid’s zone, a 20 foot rock climbing wall, and a separate beer garden. on Madeira Way between Gulf Boulevard and the Tom Stuart Causeway. www.thebeachmarkets.com/

Downtown Clearwater Farmers Market - Weds, Year Round Farm fresh produce, delicious cheeses, fresh baked goods, beautiful cut flowers, plants, a variety of crafters and much more. Stay for lunch from one of the al a cart vendors. 9:00am – 02:00pm. Live music starting at 1 am. 500-600 blocks of Cleveland St, Clearwater. 727-461-7674 www.facebook.com/CWFarmersMarket www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

BROADWAY SERIES Annie - Feb. 17-22. Leapin’ Lizards! The world’s best-loved musical returns in time-honored form. This production of Annie will be a brand new incarnation of the iconic original. Featuring book and score by Tony Award-winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie includes such unforgettable songs as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” plus the eternal anthem of optimism, “Tomorrow.” Motown The Musical - March 17-22. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music. Pippin - April 14-19. Pippin is back on Broadway for the first time since it thrilled audiences 40 years ago and

it won the Tony Award for Best Musical Revival. Pippin tells the story of a young prince on a death-defying journey to find meaning in his existence. It features sizzling choreography in the style of Bob Fosse and breathtaking acrobatics by Les 7 doigts de la main. The Illusionists - May 26-31. This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of seven of the most incredible Illusionists on earth. The Illusionists dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. NETworks presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast May 5-10. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song.

ANNIE

For more information, visitwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com Straz Center, 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org

First Date - Broadway’s Musical Comedy

My Sinatra at Ferguson Hall - Feb 28

at the Jaeb - Feb 3 - April 19

When blind date newbie Aaron is set up with serialdater Casey, a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner. As the date unfolds in real time, the couple quickly finds that they are not alone on this unpredictable evening. In a delightful and unexpected twist, Casey and Aaron’s inner critics take on a life of their own when other restaurant patrons transform into supportive best friends, manipulative exes and protective parents, who sing and dance them through ice-breakers, appetizers and potential conversational land mines. Can this couple turn what could be a dating disaster into something special before the check arrives? Warning: this show is intended for mature audiences.

M.A.D Theatre presents RENT

The devil-may-care style and incomparable charm of Frank Sinatra surge through the microphone once again in Cary Hoffman’s show, “My Sinatra.” This oneman musical explores the sometimes strange, frequently hilarious, and always interesting life of Hoffman himself, a Sinatra idolizer with unparalleled ability to channel the voice of Ol’ Blue Eyes. Throughout “My Sinatra” Hoffman interweaves his personal tale of musical obsession with the star.

Jim Breuer at Ferguson Hall - March 7

at Shimberg Playhouse - Feb 5-22

Rent, winner of the Tony award for Best Musical and Pulitzer Prize for Drama, is an inspiring rock musical with music and lyrics by Jonathan Larson and is loosely based on Giacomo Puccini’s opera La bohème. The musical tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling with sexuality, drugs, life, rent, and most of all, love in New York City’s East Village during the thriving days of Bohemian Alphabet City, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.

Named one of Comedy Central’s “100 Greatest Stand-Ups of All Time,” Jim Breuer is currently one of the top touring comedians in the country. After his renowned four year run on Saturday Night Live and starring role in the cult classic movie Half Baked alongside Dave Chappelle, Breuer was propelled into comedy stardom. Breuer continues to win over audiences with his charismatic stage antics, dead-on impressions and signature family-friendly stand-up. David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa. 813.229.STAR. www.jobsitetheater.org

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RADIO GOLF thru March 1

Harmond Wilks is a real estate developer poised to become Pittsburgh’s first African-American Mayor. He is also on the verge of clinching a lucrative land deal: if the government declares the Hill District as “blighted” – including Aunt Esther’s house on 1839 Wylie – a lot of federal money will be made available to Harmond and his partners. But as he steps into political prominence, his plans collide with his past, and August Wilson’s 10th and final play shows how, in the rush to progress, the past is never too far behind. Contains adult language.

LAMB CHOP AFTER DARK with Mallory Lewis and Lamb Chop - Fri, Jan 30

American Stage - 163 3rd Street North , St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org

a G-rated show for adults who grew up with Shari and Lamb Chop. The nostalgic performance is filled with contemporary music, topical comedy and hilarious audience participation — never failing to rekindle, in hundreds of thousands of adults, cherished memories of their previously forgotten childhood.

THE NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS Thurs, Feb 12

The New Christy Minstrels under the direction of founder Randy Sparks are now in their 54th year of touring. The Grammy Awarding-winning NCM will perform beloved American folk music audiences have loved for generations, including “This Land is Your Land.”

FUNNY BONES: The Comedy of Charlie Chaplin - Fri, Feb 20

Celebrate 100 years of “The Little Tramp” with Dan Kamin, who trained Robert Downey Jr. for his Oscarnominated performance in Chaplin. This one-of-akind event takes audiences on a magical excursion into Chaplin’s enchanted comic world through film clips, live performance, and the screening of a newly restored version of The Pawnshop, Chaplin’s short 1916 masterpiece.

Who doesn’t remember Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop? Between their television show, special appearances and quirky sing-a-longs, Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop have long established themselves as American icons. Now Shari’s daughter, Mallory, along with her mother’s famous sock puppet are carrying on the tradition — entertaining audiences of toddlers and seniors alike. Lamb Chop After Dark is

DON CAMPBELL: A Tribute to Dan Fogelberg - Sat, Feb 28

Celebrate the music of Dan Fogelberg with adult contemporary/country crossover and folk-rock singer-songwriter Don Campbell. Often compared to Dan Fogelberg, Vince Gill, and Chris Isaak, Campbell will honor singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Fogelberg with hits such as “Leader of the Band”, “Longer” and “Same Old Lang Syne.”

4537 Lowell Rd, Tampa, FL. (813) 269-1310. www.carrollwoodcenter.org/ 22

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.spcitytheatre.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

AMALIE Black and Brown Comedy Get Down Fri, Jan 23

www.amaliearena.com/ Cedric The Entertainer, Mike Epps, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, George Lopez and Charlie Murphy will come together for the Black And Brown Comedy Get Down on Fri, Jan 23 at 8 pm at Amalie Arena. Cedric the Entertainer is an actor and game show host, best known for co-starring along with Harvey on “The Steve Harvey Show” and starring as Eddie in the Barbershop films. Mike Epps has appeared in Hangover and Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins in addition to voicing ‘Sonny’ in Dr. Dolittle 2. Eddie Griffin appeared on the big screen in Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo, Scary Movie 3, John Q, and Armageddon to name a few. D.L. Hughley was a member of The Original Kings

of Comedy, a correspondent for The Jay Leno Show, host of BET’s Comic View. George Lopez hosted Lopez Tonight, TV’s groundbreaking hit sitcom George Lopez, which ran for six seasons. Charlie Murphy has appeared in feature films such as Lottery Ticket with Bow Wow, Ice Cube and Mike Epps, Our Family Wedding and The Perfect Holiday, and stars as ‘Vic’ in Adult Swim’s new show “Black Jesus”.

STAGEWORKS Birds of a Feather - thru Feb 15 www.stageworkstheatre.org/ Inspired by true events. a smart and surprisingly human comedy about two bird families living in New York City: Roy and Silo, the two male penguins who raised a chick together at the Central Park Zoo, and the redtailed hawks who made their home on the ledge of a 5th Avenue building. A heart-warming story that celebrates families of every type.

STEVE-O - Feb 26 - March 1 Steve-O (a.k.a. Stephen Glover) has become a household name and it all started when he snatched a video camera from his father’s closet when he was fifteen years old. From there he started producing homemade skateboarding videos featuring dangerous stunts mixed with comical behavior. MTV aired the first season of JACKASS starring Steve-O in 2000 and in 2002, the team moved on to JACKASS: THE MOVIE. In 2006, Paramount released JACKASS: NUMBER 2 in theatres and in 2009 Steve-O competed on ABC’s hit show, DANCING WITH THE STARS, and lasted six weeks, despite an injury and having virtually no dancing ability whatsoever.

SideSplitters is located at 12938 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com 24

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americanstage.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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UPCOMING EVENTS www.largo.com/ The Four Bitchin’ Babes “Mid Life Vices” Fri, Feb 6, 8pm

Playing their own instruments, these four seasoned musician-actress comediennes take turns in the spotlight presenting the hippest and most luxurious girl group harmonies “evah!”, Their elegant wit and sophisticated stand-up humor create an amazing evening of Cabaret/Broadway ‘esque entertainment. Let’s Go Science - Sat, Feb 7 The wacky and talented Professor Smart and Dr.

Knowitall will join forces for an educational, entertaining, and experiential extravaganza on Sat, Feb 7 at 11 am. Professor Smart will shrink his head, have toilet paper flying and have peoples’ hair standing on end all while demonstrating principals of physics. Children will learn science concepts through impressive and memorable demonstrations. The Children’s Educational Series continues through May with: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, March 7; Cinderella, April 11; Breakin’ Backwards, May 8; Breakin’ Back Summer, May 9. Neil Zirconia: The Ultimate Faux Diamond Mon, Feb 9, 2pm and 7pm. Neil Zirconia’s professionalism and the ability to remain true to “The Solitary Man” will give you an evening to treasure, filled with yesterday’s songs and beautiful noise. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr, Largo, FL 33771.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Catherine Hickman Theater

STUDIO@ 620 www.studio620.org

Night Court After Dark Sat, Feb 28

This new comedy bursts with original songs, dances, graphics and a one-of-a-kind audience participation game. The energizing Night Court Game is played by teams. Each team’s mission is to match the judge’s verdicts. Teams have three minutes to agree on one unanimous verdict and cast their ballot. Then the Judge gives her verdict. And, there’s always lots of moaning from the losers and cheering from the winners. The performances are at two different venues. Call or visit the website for more information. 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701, 727895-6620.

Rat Pack Returns Fri, Feb 13

www.mygulfport.us/recreation/calendar-ofevents/

Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. were part of a group of entertainers who met socially and became known as “The Rat Pack.” They performed together in Las Vegas and went on a national tour that started in Oakland, CA. All have since died, but their image is being carried on by three impersonators who assume the roles of the three singers during their glory days. Tony Sands as Sinatra, Johnny Petillo as Martin and Geno Monroe as Davis combine to bring their audiences the best of the Rat Pack songs and their individual hits with the onstage banter that made their act a big hit in Las Vegas. The show will be at the Catherine Hickman Theatre Fri, Feb 13 at 7 p.m. Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727- 893-1070.

MURDER ON THE HIGH Cs Thru Feb 1

“A World Of Comedy. Where YOU Become The Detective” Welcome to a command performance of “THE VOICE”.... Opera Diva Carlotta Itsalotta. As the concert progresses, the guests find out there are much more risks in singing, than the risk of losing “THE VOICE”. An interactive show the entire family will enjoy!

727-409-0293. 5732 Main Street, New Port Richey, Fl. www.ferrarostudiotheatre.com/ 28

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freeFall The Buffalo KingS - thru Feb 8 www.freefalltheatre.com

Bev and Rootie, are camped out before the gates, each determined to be the first to enter the sacred precincts. Wary at first, the two soon progress from dispute to shared confidences and a growing compassion that, in the end, teaches both women what it truly means to be a loyal fan and friend. Powerstories Theatre, 2105 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 33606.

TAMPA Theatre

freeFall Theatre opens 2015 with Natalie Symons’ comedy The Buffalo Kings playing Jan 17 – Feb 8. In Symons’ new play, as in life, comedy can be found in the most unlikely of places. The King family are gathered together for Christmas and struggling to heal in the wake of a hate crime committed against fifteen-yearold Nick. But things really start to get interesting when his senile grandfather Harold threatens to take matters in his own hands. The Buffalo Kings is a touching and often fiercely funny coming of age story that examines the inner lives of a family at once deeply dysfunctional and uniquely vibrant.

Powerstories Theatre

The Elvis Monologues and Graceland - thru Feb 15 www.powerstories.com/

AMANDA PALMER & NEIL GAIMAN Present HEARTBREAK HOTEL Sat, Feb 14 www.TampaTheatre.org

Provocative, irreverent, controversial and wildly creative, Amanda Palmer is a fearless singer, songwriter, playwright, blogger and an audaciously expressive pianist who simultaneously embraces – and explodes – traditional frameworks of music, theater and art. Credited with being one of the creators of modern comics, Neil Gaiman is an author whose work crosses genres and reaches audiences of all ages. He is listed in theDictionary of Literary Biography as one of the top ten living post-modern writers and is a prolific creator of works of prose, poetry, film, journalism, comics, song lyrics, and drama. Amanda Palmer & Neil Gaiman present Heartbreak Hotel is a special Valentine’s Day “one-night stand” of music and stories, featuring the most heartbreaking work the duo has ever made, and just possibly some lovey stuff too. Couples are hesitantly welcomed.

Powerstories Theatre Presents Elvis Monologues & Graceland, Elvis Monlogues edited by Lavonne Meuller and Graceland by Ellen Byron. The Elvis Monologues is an eclectic mix of real life characters whose personal stories cover a broad spectrum of experiences related to the King of ROCK and ROLL. Graceland is staged at the front entrance of the late Elvis Presley’s Memphis mansion. The time is five o’clock in the morning, three days before the estate is to be opened to the public. Two ardent Presley fans, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

The Early Bird Dinner Theatre

Caught in the Net - thru March 1 www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com The sequel to Run for Your Wife finds the bigamist taxi driver John Smith still keeping his two families in different parts of London, both happy and blissfully unaware of each other. However, his teenage children, a girl from one family and a boy from the other, have met on the Internet and are anxious to meet in person since they have so much in common name, surname and taxi driving dad! Keeping them apart plunges John into a hell hole of his own making. His lodger Stanley could be a savior, but he is about to go on holiday with his decrepit old father who turns up thinking he is already at the guest house. The situation spirals out of control as John juggles outrageously with

the truth. Early Bird is located at 13355 49th St N, Clearwater, FL 33762.

West Coast Players Don’t Dress for Dinner - thru Feb 1 www.wcplayers.org With his wife away, his best friend Robert unwittingly invited as an alibi, and a gourmet cook to fancy things up, Bernard has the foolproof romantic weekend planned for himself and his chic mistress - or so he thinks. An evening of mistaken identities and hilarious confusion ensues as Bernard and Robert are forced to improvise plausibility at breakneck speed.

727-437-2363. 21905 US 19 North, Clearwater.

FOOTLOOSE thru Feb 8

FOOTLOOSE follows teenager Ren and his mother as they move from Chicago to a small midwestern farming town. While Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school, he is surprised to learn about rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, Reverend Shaw. Shaw is determined to exercise control over the town’s youth that he has trouble commanding in his own home. When the reverend’s rebellious teenage daughter sets her sights on Ren, the underlying generational tensions begin to surface. The heartfelt story that emerges is of a father longing for the son he lost and of a young man aching for a father who walked out on him. To the rockin’ rhythm of its Oscar and Tony-nominated top 40 score (the soundtrack album reached number one on the Billboard charts and has sold over 15 million copies!) and augmented with dynamic new songs for the stage musical, FOOTLOOSE celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people, guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind.

SP City Theatre, 4025 31st St So, St. Petersburg FL 33712; 727-866-1973. www.spcitytheatre.org 30

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www.sidesplitterscomedy.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

TRAVELOGUE

St. Francis Inn Bed & Breakfast Inn with a Long History in St. Augustine, FL Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

S t. Augustine, America’s oldest city, also has the richest and most fascinating history, with the flags of five countries

having flown over it since 1513 starting with Spain. The French came next (1564), then Great Britain (1763), Spain again (1784), The United States (1821) the Confederacy, briefly (1861), and back to the United States in 1865. (Hopefully to remain for the rest of time.)

S t. Augustine should be on everyone’s bucket list for a visit, as it is unlike any other city in the USA. To experience

the old world charm of the city, we highly recommend a stay at the city’s oldest inn — the St. Francis Inn — which is located in the heart of the historic district. Built in 1791, it has seen a lot of changes in it’s city and weathered many storms to remain the wonderful inn it is today.

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St. Francis Innâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charming Courtyard www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

St. Francis Inn Foyer

St. Francis Inn owner Joe Finnegan

The historic St. Francis Inn 34

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f course, through the years the inn has gone through a lot of changes itself. Originally built by the Gaspar Garcia family, the home is constructed of 18” thick “coquina” limestone walls (compacted particles of seashells) which was easily found in the area, and was very prevalent in the day. It is still found today in most of the period structures throughout St. Augustine. The old fort, Castillo de San Marcos (1672), is made of coquina which was a good foundation for it as it is soft, so a shot cannonball would just sink into the walls rather than shattering them.

Francis Inn’s most famous ghost (whose room you can stay in on the third floor.) We stayed in the Garcia Suite, directly across from Lily’s, which also has it own ghost story. Quite a number of ghost hunters have visited the inn through the years, and have witnessed activity for themselves first hand. All experienced paranormal activity has been described as friendly or mischievous rather than frightening. The owners themselves have never seen Lily in their 30 years at the inn. Our visit concluded with nary a ghostly apparition. I don’t know if that makes me feel relieved or deprived!

t. Francis Inn’s original house was laid out according to orders by the King of Spain to the citizens of St. Augustine. Homes were constructed directly on the street with front entrances shielded to provide a defense from invasion. At the St. Francis, you step into a delightful side courtyard to enter the inn. There is a recorded history of the different owners through the years to the present day. An inn since 1845, it has always maintained the reputation as being one of the best in the area. A third floor was added in 1888 as well as some property across the street, which is also part of the inn today. It also had different names through the years, settling on the St. Francis Inn in 1948.

he current owners are Margaret and Joe Finnegan, who are very hands on, and have lovingly preserved the inn’s old world ambiance while adding modern touches and comfort. They are very welcoming and will regale you with tales from the inn’s history — including, of course, ghosts! Ask about Miss Lily, the St.

ach of the St. Francis Inn’s 11 guest rooms and suites are unique and all are very homey. Some of the guest rooms have such amenities as private balconies, rockers, and whirlpool tubs. After visiting the check in desk in the foyer, the first time we walked up the stairs to our suite, we reflected on all the folks who had passed this way over the 200 plus years of the house — such a sense of history! It’s a bit thrilling walk the same halls as Mr. Garcia did all those many years ago. I must stress that although the inn is very old, the amenities are not. Beds are very comfortable, bathrooms have new fixtures that fit in with the old world feel, plush robes are in every guest room, high-speed internet is found throughout the inn, there’s a solarheated swimming pool, complimentary guest bicycles to tool around old town on, a lovely courtyard to relax or enjoy a beverage. An unexpected touch was the fresh flowers and sherry we found in our guest room upon arrival.

A comfy bed at the St. Francis Inn

Stay in Miss Lily’s Room...if you dare.

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Old world charming decor in a guest bathroom

hich now brings us to the breakfast part of “Bed and Breakfast”. The St. Francis serves up a delightful homemade breakfast buffet which is different every day, and includes at least two hot entrees, fruit, freshly baked breads, coffee and assorted teas. You can enjoy your breakfast in your room, on a balcony, in the courtyard or in the dining room (oldest part of the inn dating to 1791) where you can meet other guests. Weekend days have special brunches, as do holidays. There are complimentary specialty coffees all day long in the front room of the inn, and from 5-6 pm, guests can partake of a social hour in the courtyard with different appetizers daily. From 8-9:30 pm you won’t want to miss the evening homemade desserts with beverages.

A delicious hot breakfast entree at the St. Francis Inn 36

Goodies on an antique bureau in the dining room

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The staff at the inn are very accommodating, and can assist and provide guests with any special event needs, such as gift baskets, picnic baskets, massage arrangements, etc. Wouldn’t you and your significant other love to be picked up at the inn by horse-drawn carriage and take a tour of the old city? It can be arranged! nother great plus of the inn is its location in the old city. Some of the best St. Augustine sight-seeing is walkable from the St. Francis, which is situated on the corner of St. George and St. Francis Streets. Across the street from the inn is the oldest house in St. Augustine, the González-Alvarez House. The site is from the 1600s and the present house is from the early 1700s. Here you can see the furnishings of the different occupations (Spanish, British, and American) and how the residents lived. Besides the many historical homes, are the unique shops, restaurants and museums in the old city. We really enjoyed the Pirate & Treasure Museum which is cleverly laid out and teeming with fascinating objects and terrible tales of life on the high seas. Looking out in the harbor when we came out of the museum, we were amazed to see a Spanish Galleon (The El Galeón, a 175foot replica) sailing into the harbor. Great timing! We spent quite a bit of time in the fascinating Colonial Quarter, a 2-acre living history experience covering the 16th to 18th centuries of St. Augustine. The best way to familiarize yourself with St. Augustine’s history and attractions is to take the Old Town Trolley, which gives you an overview of points of interest, and lets you hop on and off at your leisure.

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not on the Old Town Trolley route

The beautiful Memorial Presbyterian Church on the Old Town Trolley route

The historic Oldest House is across the street from the St. Francis Inn.

The Old Town Trolley is the way to see St. Augustine.

Shopping and sight-seeing in Old Town www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Bistro de Leon Chef Jean Poinard

The very French Bistro de Leon

Flounder with Hollandaise Lemon Sauce at Bistro de Leon

Taberna Del Caballo’s Marinated Beer Steamed Shrimp

Taberna Del Caballo’s wait staff in period costume

Meehan’s Irish Pub with excellent location and food 38

Taberna Del Caballo’s tasty concoction

Meehan’s Irish Pub’s Saffron Steeped Shellfish

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Take a ride around town on a horse & carriage right from the St. Francis Inn.

You never know when a Spanish Galleon may come sailing into the harbor.

here are a lot of really good — and non-chain! — restaurants in Old Town and we visited several of them during our stay. All were quite enjoyable and will be revisited on our next trip to St. Augustine. The Bistro de Leon brings a touch of France to St. Augustine, under the expert helm of Chef Jean-Stephane Poinard. His Flounder with Hollandaise Lemon Sauce and Asparagus was exceptional. In the Colonial Quarter we found the Taberna Del Caballo, which maintains the theme of the Spanish and British occupations. Wait staff is in period costume, and the kitchen is old style with no fryers and no grill. Food is Florida sourced and fresh baked. We sampled the delectable Marinated Beer Steamed Shrimp, and Crostini with Smoked Cheddar Cheese and Caramelized Onions. Meehan’s Irish Pub is one of St. Augustine’s most popular restaurants, not only for the food, but also for its location on Charlotte St. overlooking the Matanzas River. We had a 5-course dinner with Duck Confit, Saffron Steeped Shellfish, Park Shank Lollipops, Slow Braised Ox Tail, topped off by a Double Chocolate Baileys Bread Pudding. Yes, it was delicious!

he Finnegans also have beach cottages on Anastasia Island, a condo on Camachee Island, and an oceanfront townhouse on

The 1672 Castillo de San Marcos is made of coquina

The Pirate & Treasure Museum is chock full of interesting “stuff”. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Crescent Beach — all part of the St. Francis group. There are even some accommodations for guests with pets. Guests at any of the accommodations are free to use the amenities of the other properties, which makes for a complete rounded out vacation. t. Augustine has so much to offer with many fun and interesting events occurring throughout the year. Get thee to a travel agent or go online and book a stay at the St. Francis soon!

If You Go... St. Francis Inn: stfrancisinn.com Visit St. Augustine: staugustinegovernment.com Castillo de San Marcos: nps.gov/casa/index.htm González-Alvarez House: staugustinehistoricalsociety.org Pirate & Treasure Museum: piratesoul.com Colonial Quarter: colonialquarter.com Old Town Trolley: trolleytours.com/st-augustine Bistro de Leon: bistrodeleon.com Taberna Del Caballo: colonialquarter.com Meehan’s Irish Pub: meehansirishpub.com 39

s t r e c n o ot C

AMALIE ARENA

www.amaliearena.com

Tues, Feb 3

udiences will enjoy the delightful range of the world’s most famous Pops orchestra led by Keith Lockhart. Experience the majesty of Dvorak and Copland, swing with Ellington and Gershwin, get a little crazy with Queen and soar with the film music of John Williams. In addition, audience-favorite pianist Michael Chertock joins the Pops for a performance of George Gershwin’s I Got Rhythm Variations. It’s music for the ages -- and for all ages -- that the whole family will treasure. Under his leadership, Keith Lockhart continues to bring the Pops already spectacular show to new heights including 35 national tours, four overseas tours, 11 albums and 73 television shows including 38 new programs for PBS’s “Evening at Pops” and the annual July Fourth spectacular in Boston. In addition to his work with the Boston Pops, Lockhart is currently the Principal Conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra and is the Artistic Director of the Brevard Music Center Summer Institute and Festival. He has conducted nearly every major orchestra in North America, as well as the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, the NHK Symphony is Tokyo, and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. In 2009, Lockhart concluded eleven seasons as Music Director of the Utah Symphony and created the first ever joint administrative arts entity of the Orchestra and Utah Symphony.

Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band Ride Out Tour Thurs, Feb 5

Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band is hitting the road in support of Seger’s new studio album, Ride Out. The tour will make a stop at Amalie Arena in Tampa on February 5 at 7:30 p.m. The tour will be Seger’s most extensive since 2006/2007 “Face The Promise Tour” and will give Seger & his Silver Bullet Band the opportunity to perform once more for fans across the US and Canada including stops in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Cleveland, Atlanta, Pittsburgh Buffalo, Toronto, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale and Phoenix. Seger’s Ride Out album entered the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart at #3, marking Seger’s highest debut ever on the chart. www.bobseger.com

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Maroon 5 WORLD TOUR 2015 Wed, Feb 25

ulti-platinum selling and Grammy Award-winning rock band, Maroon 5, is touring in support of the band’s fifth studio album, V. THE MAROON 5 WORLD TOUR 2015 includes a stop in Tampa at Amalie Arena on February 25 at 7:30 pm. Rozzi Crane will open the tour in the US. Their new album, V, features the Billboard Top 10 smash hits, “Maps,” and “Animals.” “Maps,” which Rolling Stone declares “a stomping, funk-soul-gospel breakdown,” quickly reinforced the group’s status as a powerhouse in popular music, setting a record for the highest debut by a group on Top 40 radio charts in 18 years. Fans who purchase a ticket to THE MAROON 5 WORLD TOUR 2015 online at www.livenation.com will also receive a digital download of the album. Capturing their first of three Grammy Awards as “Best New Artist” of 2005 and going on to sell more than 17 million albums worldwide, Maroon 5’s releases have gone gold and platinum in over 35 countries. The band won over fans and critics alike with the hybrid rock/R&B sound they introduced on their debut album, Songs About Jane and their double platinum album, It Won’t be Soon Before Long, which included hits like “Makes Me Wonder” and “If I Never See your Face Again.” In 2010, the band released their third studio album, Hands All Over, which featured the group’s anthemic charttopping smash single “Moves Like Jagger.” The song has since gone on to become one of the bestselling singles of all time. Maroon 5’s most recent album Overexposed quickly reinforced the group’s status as a powerhouse in popular music with all of its singles rising to the top of the charts and setting an all time record for the most #1s (six in total) by a group in the Top 40 chart’s 20-year history.

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February Offers Valentine Concerts, Beethoven, Mozart and More

icking off the month of February at the Tampa Bay Times Masterworks, The Florida Orchestra’s (TFO) newly appointed Music Director Designate Michael Francis will lead the orchestra and The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay in Faure’s gorgeous Requiem. This French-themed concert also includes Henri Dutilleux’s virtuosic concerto for orchestra, Métaboles, and Maurice Ravel’s charming Mother Goose in the complete ballet score version. Concerts are February 7 and 8 in St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Enjoy complimentary coffee and doughnuts at the next morning Coffee Concert with Principal Guest Conductor Stuart Malina leading the orchestra in favorite romantic themes for the Valentine’s weekend. Music includes highlights from Bernstein’s West Side Story, Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, Bizet’s Carmen and Gershwin’s Girl Crazy, along with music by Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn and others. Taking place in a relaxed setting with a casual format, these concerts are Wednesday, Feb 11, 10 a.m. at Ruth Eckerd Hall, in Clearwater, and Thursday, February 12, at 11 a.m. at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. You can also celebrate Valentine’s Day at the next Raymond James Pops concert with multi-award-winning vocalist Denzal Sinclaire singing the heart-winning ballads of the great Nat King Cole. Favorites include Mona Lisa, When I Fall in Love, Smile, Walking My Baby Back Home, and To the Ends of the Earth, among others. Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik conducts both a 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. concert in St. Petersburg on Saturday, February 14 and a 7:30 p.m. concert in Clearwater on Sunday, February 15. The following Masterworks concert offers a night of electrifying and virtuosic displays with Frenchman Pascal Rogé performing Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No. 2 . The concert also includes Wagner’s dramatic Overture to Tannhäuser and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4 overflowing with beautiful themes. Associate Conductor of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Perry So conducts these concerts on February 20, 21 and 22 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Hailed by the Chicago Tribune as “a first-rate artist of real musical command, vitality, brilliance and intensity,” Karen Gomyo performs Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5, “Turkish.” New York Philharmonic Assistant Conductor Joshua Weilerstein leads TFO in this program, which also includes Brahms’ mighty Symphony No. 4 and Thomas Adès’ delightful Three Studies from Couperin. Concerts are February 27 and 28 and March 1 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

Karen Gomyo

Tickets are on sale at 800-662-7286 and online. Please visit TFO website for show times and venues at www.floridaorchestra.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

COOLSTUFF!

! n e h c t i K e In Th

Gourmet Popcorn Sweet Treats From Capital Corn www.TrentonPopcorn.com

Who doesn’t love popcorn? Capital Corn has created some really different and yummy all natural popcorn flavors that should delight any palate. New flavors are always being added, and seasonal ones as well. Peppermint Bark, Peppermint Poppy, Gingered Caramel, or Cinnamon Bun anyone? Cookies & Cream and Cheddar are also favorites. Capital Corn makes great gift baskets in three sizes — personal, royal and deluxe.

NAKED TURTLE RUM www.nakedturtle.com/

Earth Cafe

Impossibly Delicious Vegan Cheesecakes To Go www.EarthCafeToGo.com

If you’re like me, and you hear “vegan, wheat/ gluten free, dairy free, cholesterol free and refined sugar free” you’re going to figure it’s good for you, but gonna taste awful. Earth Cafe has created forreal delicious 8-slice cheesecakes that can tout the above description! Flavor choices make them even more tantalizing: Pumpkin Spice, Who’s Your Daddy? (Rich creamy Carob Mousse), Rockin’ Raspberry, Cherry Dream, Strawberry Fields Forever, Blueberry Thrill — to name a few. A Sampler pie is comprised of 8 slices of your favorite flavors. Slices of their gourmet desserts are sold in health food stores nationwide, but if you can’t find them near you, you can have them shipped frozen right to your doorstep. They will keep for months in the freezer. Just thaw out a few hours before serving. Enjoy!

Don’t Worry. Drink Naked.

Naked Turtle takes it’s rum seriously. Produced on the island of St. Croix the rum is crafted with fine sugar cane molasses and distilled five times with the pristine waters of the Virgin Islands. The Naked Turtle never touches the inside of oak barrels, and is bottled “naked” allowing the naturally delicious rum character to shine through, producing crisp, great tasting rum that goes down smooth. It looks clear and crisp, and smells like rum with subtle hints of vanilla. The Naked Turtle mixes well with everything. Signature cocktails include the Naked Cola, the Naked Daiquiri, the Naked Colada as well as a host of other delicious drinks made naked. Not surprisingly, The Naked Turtle is a big fan of sea turtles, and they have partnered with the Sea Turtle Conservancy to raise awareness and protect them.

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PERSONALIZED BEER GLASS “Will Run For Beer”

www.homewetbar.com/ What do you want waiting for you at the end of a long race? You want your cold beer! Show everyone your love for running and for beer with the Will Run For Beer personalized pint glass from HomeWetBar.com. Featuring foot print detail, this beer glass can be personalized with your name and established date of choice. Measuring 6” tall and holding 16 ounces, these glasses are great gifts for runners who enjoy a nice cold brew after a long race. Will Run For Beer Personalized Pint Glass is made with sturdy glass construction, and is dishwasher safe. HomeWetBar.com has a lot of other great bar related gift ideas too.

VITACLAY

Yogurt Maker and Personal Slow Cooker

vitaclaychef.com

The VitaClay Stoneware Yogurt Maker and Personal Slow Cooker is a temperature controlled, large batch stoneware yogurt maker. No more worries about leeching from plastic containers or fragile glass. Three setting temperature control makes creating standard style yogurt, creamy and delicious probiotic Greek yogurt, yogurt cheese or any other yogurt simple and easy. It’s easy and costs 50% less than plastic store bought containers to make 2 quarts of home-crafted natural, creamy and delicious probiotic Greek yogurt or yogurt cheese. Pass on fragile glass, unstable plastics or metals touching your fresh and healthy ingredients and say yes to the lowtemperature controlled, easy to clean and chemical free ceramic insert used by VitaClay. Make flavorful and rich artisan homemade yogurt free from additives, preservative or thickeners on your countertop. The 2 quart, 64 ounce ceramic stoneware insert is easy to clean and chemical free. Choose your own high quality ingredients to maximize your calcium and probiotic content. Add your own juicy fruits and sweeteners for monitoring your sugar intake. Great for one-pot personal meals, soups and stews as well. VitaClay comes with over 50 natural recipes for making and using yogurt plus savory one-pot meals. Comes in red or silver exterior. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tasty Food and Drinks! “Brews & Bites” Brings Food Trucks and Live Music to Sail Pavilion - 2nd Fri of the Month www.tampaconventioncenter.com

Sail Pavilion is located on Tampa’s busy RiverWalk, adjacent to the Tampa Convention Center, 333 S. Franklin St, Tampa. 813-373-1193.

Dunedin Wine and Art Walk - 2nd Fri of the Month www.2ndfridaydunedin.com/

On the second Friday of every month, the Sail Pavilion hosts a Brews & Bites Food Truck Rally. A rolling celebration of food and fun, Brews & Bites will feature a fleet of area food trucks, and live entertainment from local musicians at the venue’s unique 360-degree waterfront bar, from 6 to 11 pm.

Eve’s Family Restaurant Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Beer & Wine • Homemade Soups DAILY SPECIALS • BANQUETS • CATERING 28 Years In The Same Oldsmar Location!

DINNER FOR 2... $18.99 Includes entree, soup or salad and dessert* Cannot be combined with other offers, coupons or specials

*ice cream, pudding or jello Choose from the following:

Oven Roasted Turkey Smothered Chicken Breast Smothered Chop Steak Spaghetti & Meatballs

Meatloaf Fried Shrimp Liver n’ Onions Chicken Livers

Woodland Square 3150 Tampa Road, Oldsmar • 787- 6886 6:00 A.M -8:00 P.M. TUES - SAT., 6:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. SUN. & MON. 46

Celebrate the second Friday of the month as downtown Dunedin merchants offer specials and discounts; browse the art exhibits, sip wine at tastings, enjoy food samplings, live entertainment and a drawing. Wristbands to get special offers from merchants and be eligible for prize drawing. Pioneer Park, Main Street and Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, 34698.

Beer Bourbon & Barbecue Festival at Curtis Hixon Park - Sat, Feb 14 www.beerandbourbon.com This 2nd Annual event consists of two sessions: VIP Bacon and Whole Hog beginning at noon and regular session beginning at 2pm. Over 5000 guests are expected to celebrate the romantic holiday with Whole Hearts & Whole Hogs. The All-YouCare To Taste extravaganza features a wide variety of beer, bourbon and lots of BBQ. Guests can enjoy hundreds of exhibits, live music on the Main Stage, seminars in the Tasting Theater and fun contests sure to entertain. On The Main Stage, guests can enjoy The Greg Billings Band, The Black Honkeys and a TO BE NAMED Opening Act. In addition to these acts, guests can participate in the “Drink Like A Lady Contest” and the Best Beer Belly Competition” with the winners taking home cash prizes.

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WineWeekendStPete.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Tasty Food and Drinks! Wine Weekend St. Pete 2015 - Feb 6 - 8 www.wineweekendstpete.org

Wine Weekend St. Pete 2015: Cheers to 50 Years. February 6-8 celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. Stars of the wine world Jean-Charles Boisset and Gina Gallo will be the guests of honor. The corks will pop, the wine will flow, and the good times will roll at the following: Black-tie “Evening at Maxim’s” on Fri, Feb 6, begins at 7 p.m. in the Marly Room. International Wine Auction under the tent on the Museum’s north lawn and dinner at the “Café Montmartre” in the Mary Alice McClendon Conservatory, Sat, Feb 7. Wine-tastings/auction preview begins at 2:30 p.m. The live auction follows at 4 p.m. and will spotlight not only exquisite wine, but also over-the-top lifestyle items and trips. Dress is resort casual. The French-themed dinner starts at 7:30 p.m. Anniversary Brunch at the MFA, Sun, Feb 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The MFA’s Monet to Matisse—On the French Coast (February 7-May 31) spotlights masterworks from some of the world’s greatest museums. Other major artists represented in this landmark exhibition include Renoir, Signac, Bonnard, and Raoul and Jean Dufy. The exhibition also features two paintings by Picasso from the 1930s, lent by his son Claude.

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THREE-COURSE, PRIX FIXE VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY DINNER MENU at PELAGIA TRATTORIA - Sat, Feb 14 www.pelagiatrattoria.com

San Gennaro Festa Feb 21 - 22

www.sangennarofesta.com LIADO, will present its 12th annual San Gennaro Festa to celebrate and share the Italian culture with residents and visitors of Safety Harbor and the surrounding area on Sat and Sun, Feb 21-22 at the Safety Harbor Marina. Hours will be 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sat and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sun. The Taste of Italia event will feature classic Italian food demonstrations, live music and dancing, bocce ball, crafts and

more. Proceeds from the event will benefit several local charities.

Celebrate Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day at Pelagia Trattoria. Executive Chef Brett Gardiner has crafted a special, multi-course menu that will be available from 5:30 - 10 p.m. exclusively on Feb. 14. Diners will select from a variety of dishes to create their choice for a delicious start to dinner, a mouth-watering main course and an irresistible dessert. Every guest will also receive ripe, fresh-from-the-fields Plant City strawberries dipped in chocolate, compliments of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association. Pelagia offers a modern twist on Italian cuisine that features fresh, seasonal flavors and locally sourced foods (based on availability). Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, the restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating and is located adjacent to the lobby level of the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel at 4200 Jim Walter Blvd. (or 2223 N. West Shore Blvd.), Tampa, FL, 33607. For information, or reservations, call 813-313-3235 . www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Chef-inspired Culinary Market Opens in Downtown St. Petersburg Story by Joyce LaFray, photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino he once somnolent City of St. Petersburg, known worldwide as “The Sunshine City,” now offers residents and visitors alike everything under the sun. In addition boasting an amazing waterfront of 244 miles along the water, one of the largest marinas in the southeast, and Ft. Desoto, a nationally top ranked beach, now there’s an outstanding culinary marketplace in the picturesque downtown. Thanks to James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Mina and esteemed partner Chef Don Pintabona, St. Petersburg has suddenly awakened to a most unique experience, the birth of an outstanding market named simply “Locale.” I’ve live in this remarkable city for 36 years and enjoyed every moment, though often disappointed in the restaurants and markets. Yet, the last several years have fortuitously transformed this city into a treasure trove of exciting gastronomic adventures. I was greatly anticipating the December opening of this much-touted market to the Sundial complex. Once known as “Baywalk,” before recent renovations by the ingenious Bill Edwards, CEO of the Edwards Group, this “shopping mall” is now attracting record-breaking crowds. Edwards says, “St. Petersburg is ready to embrace Locale Market. We’re proud to offer a world-class culinary marketplace to our world-class city and those who discover it.” CONTINUED

CHEF MICHAEL MINA, co-owner along with Don Pintabona.

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Photo by Joyce Lafray

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Locale Market cont’ And a world-class market it is. This Chef MinaPintabona brainchild contains something for every finicky taste, like the enormous Tomahawk prime beef, the creamiest gelato I have tasted since I lived in Italy, fresh home-style pasta with a choice of truffle butter, ragu, or simple but luscious pomodoro, fresh fish that runs the gamut from cobia and red snapper to the freshest oysters and plumpest shrimp money can buy. Savor the prize Bibb lettuce, rosy red plum tomatoes, organic fruits, veggies and herbs, fresh cut flowers, and a bevy of gourmet delights, including a lovely selection of EVOO’s and balsamic. What’s truly unique is the market design. There are a variety of kitchens, each with their own sous chefs offering monthly seasonal menus. Guests can choose to take-out, or eat in at a scattering of tables downstairs, at the cozy wine-beer bar upstairs, or alfresco at a comfy patio overlooking Sundial. Kitchens carry about five dinning selections including sides, most under $15. My favorites are the ribs with guava barbecue sauce, grilled finfish, and the potpourri of specially seasoned veggies. There’s sushi, tempura

shrimp, and a luscious St.Petersburger containing aged beef that’s worth the $14 tab. A charcuterie area contains a unique variety of cheeses and meats, including some triple creams and salumi. William Dean, the famous Clearwater chocolatier, is often on premise whipping up his colorful confections, including a good version of our beloved Key Lime pie. And there’s more. Take an afternoon to explore. Local ingredients from farm- to-table are a highlight, and you can even arrange a special dinner in a private dining room upstairs, with a flight of wine or beer to suit your fancy. No doubt, Locale and these culinary wizards are here to stay. Locale Market is located at 179 2nd Ave North, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701. 727-523-6300. For more information, visit www.localegourmetmarket.com/

Joyce LaFray, known as “The Florida Gourmet” is the author of 15 cookbooks and guides to Florida and Caribbean restaurants, and recipient of many awards for her contributions to the Florida/ Caribbean dining scene.

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www.clearwaterbeachuncorked.com/

njoy the pre-Valentine’s Day buzz on February 7th and 8th for two deliciously decadent days, as

Clearwater Beach is transformed into an epicurean oasis for food, wine, spirits and craft beer fans and connoisseurs. Bright House, the City of Clearwater, VSPC, the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, and Publix Super Markets host the mouthwatering 4th annual Clearwater Beach Uncorked beachfront food & wine adventure. Nationally acclaimed chefs will whisk, whip and wow guests alongside the areas great local chefs, winemakers, spirits producers, and culinary experts. Tickets to the Grand Tasting event will provide access to the premier destination for foodies, wine lovers and craft/ micro-brew beer aficionados. Enjoy fabulous food from the area’s most delicious restaurants, ‘boutiquey’ hotspots, and world-class hotels.

Taste over 100 wines from across the globe and enjoy the best brews available. Sip, savor and be seen on Clearwater Beach at this paparazzi-filled event nestled on one of the most exquisite beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Guests of the event will enjoy a perfect beach weekend coupled with light bites of sweet and savory fare to compliment a vast array of enviable and recognized wines and craft beers to satisfy every palette. Meet with wine specialists, brew masters along with the best and brightest chefs from across the Bay-Area during this week-long gastronomic experience. Clearwater Beach Uncorked will donate a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales to the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership. Funds will go to educational programs and scholarships to enhance the future of individuals in the hospitality and IT industries. Food, wine, and beer sampling is all inclusive in the ticket price. Area parking lots are plentiful. See the parking section on the website for more information.

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BOXXLE WINE DISPENSER Enjoy Boxed Wine www.boxxle.com

n the past, boxed wines were not held in the highest regard. Not anymore. Boxxle is a new 3-liter premium box wine dispenser for home, bar or restaurant. It gives wine lovers an easy, convenient and attractive way to dispense and enjoy boxed wine … elevating it above the rim of the glass for easy dispensing, right down to the last drop. The Boxxle is a handsome stainless steel dispenser designed to rest on a countertop, bar or table. Boxed wine stays fresh up to six weeks; it’s shatter-proof, portable, will never have cork taint, and is environmentally conscious. The variety of boxed wines is impressive, with producers offering everything from Moscato to Monastrell and many smaller, family-owned wineries selling boxed versions of their premium wines including Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnays, Pinot Grigios and organics. With Boxxle, wine lovers can use the entire bag without having to tip or drag the container to the edge of the countertop. Boxxle automatically compresses the bag and keeps wine fresh up to six weeks. With its contemporary design, the Boxxle is sturdy, built to last, and complements any kitchen, bar or dining room décor.

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The Newest Addition to Walt Disney World’s Boardwalk Resort is an Italian Cuisine Lover’s Delight! Story and Photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

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Step into the new Trattoria al Forno located right on the boardwalk at Disney’s Boardwalk Resort and you enter a time gone by in Italy. The décor is modernized old world comfort with cozy tables overlooking the boardwalk, or front row seating to observe cooking from scratch like your mama used to make—that’s if your mama was a darn good Italian cook.

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As is with all things Disney, great attention to detail has been made in the look of the restaurant as well as the cuisine. A select list of 65 Italian wines is attractively on display as you enter the restaurant lobby area. A back-story of the trattoria makes the dining experience even more fun. The Trattoria al Forno is supposed to be a family-owned turn-of-the-20th-century boarding house that, because of it’s popularity, has become a restaurant with four different dining areas – la cucina (the kitchen), sala da pranzo (the formal dining room with a beautiful display of the family’s china and silverware, and crystal chandeliers overhead), salotto (the living room with comfortable booths and old family photos on the wall), and la taverna (the “original” family tavern, now a private dining room for groups.) On our dinner visit we experienced 4 courses, beginning with a terrific Antipasti of very thin-sliced Italian Cured Meats with House-Pickled Peppers, Olives and Caponata (made with eggplant and veggies), and a Caprese Salad with house-made Mozzarella, all served on a polished wooden pizza board. The Trattoria has a special meat slicer that can slice their meats to an impossible thinness. Chef said “If you hold it up to the light and don’t see your finger’s shadow through it, it’s not thin enough.” The achieved thinness actually seems to enhance the meat’s flavor. Our next course was pizza, and we picked two out of the menu of six different styles — a Truffle Cream with Asiago, Pecorino, and Fontina Cheeses, and a Fennel Sausage, Salame Picante with House-Pickled Peppers. They were both exceptional, with that wonderful crust that can only come from a brick oven (the al forno, which can get up to 800° and cook a pizza in 90 seconds!) For our main course, our group ordered 3 different dishes and shared tastings. Tables are cleverly set up with a stack of small plates just for that purpose. Braised Beef Bolognese came with house-made Cavatelli, with very tender beef and a delightful red sauce made with a touch of wine. The Semolina Tagliatelle alla Carbonara with Guanciale (Pork Jowls) was delectable. Due to the process of preparing Guanciale, the meat takes on a fuller flavor, which works very well in this dish. And the Shrimp with Garlic, Caper, and Anchovy Butter served with Polenta was a garlic lover’s delight.

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Hardly room for dessert, but always a must, so we carried on. More group tastings with the order of a Cannoli “Pizzelle” filled with Chocolate and Pistachio Cream, and a Lemon Panna Cotta with Almond Crunch and Macerated Berries. Both sublime! Fortunately, the restaurant is located right on the boardwalk, so a pleasant walk around it finishes off a lovely evening, and maybe loses a few worth-it calories!

The Trattoria is also open for breakfast, and has a wonderful sounding menu, which we will definitely try on a return visit. Poached Eggs with Fennel Sausage, Parmesan and Tomato Gravy served over soft Polenta sounds too good to pass up! Trattoria al Forno is open 7:30 – 11:00 a.m. for breakfast, 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. for dinner. For more information or reservations, visit www.disneyworld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE.

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2015 Coming Up in the “World” New Name, New Adds to Disney’s Polynesian

cation Club Bungalows will be the first of this type of accommodation at Disney, sleep up to eight guests, and feature a plunge pool where guests can enjoy views of fireworks over Magic Kingdom and Seven Seas Lagoon. This resort will also be the first to have connecting Deluxe Studios that will sleep up to five guests and have kitchenettes and enhanced storage space for convenience and comfort. The first phase of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is scheduled to open in 2015.

New Africa Marketplace Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom As part of a sweeping re-imagining, Disney’s Polynesian Resort has returned to its original, 1971 opening day name: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Changes also include a new food and beverage experience opening for guests in 2015: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto – opening in the spring and based on the lounge at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Trader Sam’s will welcome explorers to a mystical and tropical oasis featuring a lounge area with handcrafted tiki cocktails served in souvenir mugs, paired with Polynesia-inspired small plates. Other changes greeting Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort guests: A menu makeover at Capt. Cook’s quick-service restaurant. A new children’s activity center called Club Disney welcomes guests ages 3-12 to play dress-up, create crafts and engage in games, storytelling or movie nights. A renovated Nanea Volcano feature pool area, a new children’s water play area and an enlarged deck for poolside seating will be completed in 2015. Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows will feature 20 Disney Vacation Club bungalows on Seven Seas Lagoon and 360 Deluxe Studios. The Disney Va-

Imagine the colors, scents, savory tastes and boundless activity of a village marketplace in Africa. That sensory scene is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom with a spring 2015 opening planned for Africa Marketplace – a new shopping and dining option for park-goers in Harambe, the village anchoring the Africa section of the park. One highlight of the new space will be Harambe

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Marketplace, a new quick-service food and beverage location offering street-inspired dishes from walk-up windows. Guests will find plenty of shady places to relax and eat. For their convenience, the new space also will open up a new pathway from Africa to Bradley Falls and the Asia section of the park. Together with the new Harambe Theatre housing “The Festival of the Lion King,” the addition of Africa Marketplace will double the size of the original Harambe Village. Paired with previously-announced projects throughout the park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is undergoing the largest expansion in its history.

the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend - Feb 19-22

The Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, takes place Feb. 19-22, at Walt Disney World Resort. There are races for all ages and levels, including runDisney Kids Races. For those who think a half marathon is just a walk in the park, runners can participate in the Disney Glass Slipper Challenge, which includes a 19.3mile adventure over two days – the Disney Enchanted 10K on Saturday followed by the Disney Princess Half Marathon on Sunday. For an additional challenge and cruise vacation, runners who immediately follow the Princess Half Marathon Weekend race with a Disney cruise departing Monday, Feb. 23, can run the Castaway Cay 5K on Disney’s private island in the Bahamas to earn a specially designed Disney Castaway Cay Challenge Finisher Medal.

22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 4 - May 17

Spring will bloom in a big way with bountiful blossoms, colorful Disney topiaries, gardening seminars and flavors of the season when the 22nd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival runs March 4 to May 17 at Walt Disney World Resort. Dozens of Disney character topiaries, from Chip and Dale to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, will rule the festival kingdom in the park’s Future World and World Showcase, and Outdoor Kitchens will return with refreshing beverages and tantalizing tastes from the garden and grill. Home and garden seminars, children’s play gardens and other festival features will return for the 75day event. At the Festival Center, interactive gardening workshops will set the stage for outdoor do-it-yourself inspiration, and guest speakers will cover the latest in outdoor trends and home and garden topics. Guests can try new food and beverage tastes from Outdoor Kitchen menus and pose for selfies among topiaries, multiple themed gardens and children’s play areas. Disney-crafted “flower towers,” herb gardens and beds of multi-colored blooms will add to the floral splendor of the park’s landscape. On the park’s Future World lakes, more than 200 mini-gardens will be set afloat. Hundreds of butterflies of several species will dazzle guests at the festival’s screened butterfly house. As the sun begins to set, illuminated gardens will brighten the evening and cast a magical glow across the park.

For more information and future updates, guests may check online at www.DisneyWorld.com

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS www.visitOrlando.com

Coming up in Orlando A CHOREOGRPAHERS’ SHOWCASE DAZZLES At Downtown Disney Mon, Feb 23 www.orlandoballet.org

let present A Choreographers’ Showcase for one night only at the La Nouba Theater at Downtown Disney West Side, on Mon, Febr 23. This critically acclaimed partnership features new works created and performed by artists from both Cirque du Soleil and the Orlando Ballet. Expect the unexpected when these two groups come together for one night only in a theater known for enlightening artistic performances.

Art of the Highwaymen at The Orange County Regional History Center - thru March 22

La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil and the Orlando Bal-

www.thehistorycenter.org In 1950s and 1960s, a group of self-taught African American artists known as the Highwaymen worked against segregation and oppressive Jim Crow laws to sell their Florida landscape paintings. Driving from town to town and offering their work from the trunks of their cars, the Highwaymen sold to a diverse audience of doctors, shop owners, and housewives. In the 1990s, articles about their success in Folk Art, People Magazine, and the New York Times brought

WILD DAYS Weekends thru Feb 8

www.seaworldparks.com/ 64

oin in for three wild weekends on Jan. 2425, Jan.31 - Feb.1, and Feb. 7-8. An immersive event in every sense of the word, Wild Days connects guests to this wild and wonderful world we all share. Wild Days features exciting and interactive shows, the opportunity to meet the leaders in the world of animal rescue, rehabilitation, and preservation, and encounter amazing animals up close. Jan. 24 - 25 - Penguin Lovers’ Weekend - SeaWorld’s Animal Ambassador Julie Scardina hosts a cool weekend of wildlife surprises, with a special focus on penguins! Jan 31 - Feb 1 - Generation Nature Live with Bindi Irwin - Join SeaWorld Kids youth ambassador Bindi Irwin, for this high-energy, fun-filled show, packed with cool and quirky animal facts designed to inspire kids to become Game changes for Nature. Feb 7 - 8 - Jack Hanna Weekend - Worldrenowned animal expert Jungle Jack Hanna returns to SeaWorld for a weekend of wild encounters.

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collective. In addition, on February 18, 2015 there will be five Highwaymen artists: Curtis Arnett, Mary Ann Carroll, James Gibson, Robert Lewis, and Roy McLendon onsite at the History Center sharing stories and bringing more artwork exclusively for the event. Art of the Highwaymen is currently open and runs through March 22, 2015. Visit our website at www.thehistorycenter.org for more information and programs in conjunction with the exhibit.

the Highwaymen new acclaim, and suddenly the public clamored for their paintings. Original works by the Highwaymen became extremely collectible. Surviving artists found themselves staging painting demonstrations and even contributing designs to ornaments for the White House Christmas tree. The Orange County Regional History Center is showcasing fourteen paintings from its’ collection created by twelve of the original Highwaymen artists, including Mary Ann Carroll, the only female artist in the

e a part of A Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort, Jan 30 – Feb 1. You can join in interview sessions with film talent, have the chance to get their autographs, access special discussions and demonstrations, and visit a Harry Potter Expo. A Celebration of Harry Potter is an unforgettable event where the magic of Harry Potter continues and it’s only at Universal Orlando Resort.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

www.universalorlando.com

ith 16 concerts lighting up the stage; 1.8 million beads flying through the air; a wild and wonderful parade led by amazing, outrageous performers and great food—Mardi Gras is like no other. Each night a different big-name headliner gets the party started—playing their biggest hits and favorite tunes live on stage. Scheduled Performances: Feb 7 - Olivia Newton-John; Feb 14 - Jessie J; Feb 15 - Barenaked Ladies; Feb 21 - Kelly Clarkson; Feb 28 - Heart; Mar 7 - Trace Adkins; Mar 13 - TBD; Mar 14 - Styx.

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Looking Good POCKET POPPET Cardigan On The Go

f you hate carting around a cardigan on your arm, wrapped around your waist or over your shoulder just in case you might need one for where ever you’re going, your’re going to love the Pocket Poppet. This stylish cardigan comes in a little pouch that becomes part of the outfit when you unfold it — hidden on the inside back by the small of your back. The hidden pouch is now a handy place to keep some valuables while traveling. The Pocket Poppet’s design is such that it fits in whether you’re dressed up or down. You can carry on your wrist via it’s wrist strap, or stick it in your purse. It comes in 8 colors and 3 styles. It’s made of a knit fabric that is 92% rayon jersey, with 8% spandex, and made in the USA.

Stetson No Fly Zone Hats www.dorfman-pacific.com/

he Stetson No Fly Zone Hats from Dorfman-Pacific help keep the buzzing away from you. These innovative hats protect against all kind of pests including; mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, ants and flies. The No Fly Zone hats are EPA registered and contain permethrin fabric which is recommended by both the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and WHO (World Health Organization), making these hats environmentally friendly. There are several different models available, the one illustrated here is made with durable 71% nylon, 29% polyester construction and a mesh inset, which allows for breathability. The brim offers protection from the sun, and a fold-away fabric shield blocks the wind and sun from your ears and neck. A drawstring and toggle closure at the back of hatband allows for a custom fit on this very comfortable and lightweight hat.

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www.thepocketpoppet.com

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NERIUM

For Perfect Skin

www.mynerium.com

erium is a one-of-a-kind, science-based line of skincare products that produce real results. The secret in their Day Cream, Night Cream and Body Contouring Cream is the exclusive combination of antioxidants that have anti-aging properties and aloe, which hydrates, firms and soothes skin tissue. NeriumADâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Age-Defying night and day creams address multiple skincare concerns at once, including the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, enlarged pores and uneven skin texture. NeriumFirm Body Contouring Cream is formulated to help improve the appearance of cellulite and dimpling on common problem-areas, such as love handles, thighs, waist, upper arms and more.

Prep Sportswear Vintage Team Fan Gear www.prepsportswear.com/vintageteams_directory.aspx

o you still hold allegiance to a sports team that is no longer around? If you long for the good old days when your favorite team was still taking the field, then Prep Sportwear has you covered. For the nostalgic sports fan, this classic Vintage line features some of the greatest teams of all time.Â&#x2026;Prep Sportswear offers the largest array of custom fan apparel for football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey and more. Once you find your team - choose from endless logo possibilities of t-shirts, hoodies, tech device skins - to backpacks, blankets, scarves, towels and beyond. Then choose your logo, pick a color, size and personalize.

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas CHARLIE PALMER’S AUREOLE and DARIOUSH Join Forces For Elegant Wine Pairing Dinner Feb 5: www.mandalaybay.com/ Charlie Palmer’s Aureole at Mandalay Bay will unite with Darioush winery for an exclusive pairing dinner Thurs, Feb 5 at 6:30 p.m. Mandalay Bay’s Director of Wine Harley Carbery, along with winery Proprietor Darioush Khaledi and President Dan de Polo will host the event guiding guests through each of the 6 courses with insights into the inspired thinking behind each pairing. The event will leave guests wanting more as they taste the exquisite fare from Aureole and the harmonious blends of traditions, graciousness and thoughtfulness of Darioush.

lute to the greatest singer of the 20th century, Frank Sinatra. The theatrical production starring Bob Anderson, complete with a 32-piece orchestra, re-enacts a live Sinatra performance highlighting the music of The Great American Songbook, which Frank made so famous. Music lovers will get to travel back to a time circa 1975. Rascal Flatts at Hard Rock Hotel: www.hardrockhotel.com/las-vegas-hotel?

50 SHADES! THE PARODY at Bally’s Opening Feb 3: www.50ShadesVegas.com Chart-topping music group Rascal Flatts brings the first country residency, Rascal Flatts Vegas Riot!, to The Joint inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino with nine shows between Wed, Feb 25 and Sat, March 14. Inspired by the best-selling trilogy, Fifty Shades of Grey, 50 Shades! The Parody begins performances on Feb. 3. Proclaimed “filthy and funny” by New York Daily News and “clever and wildly entertaining” by Variety, 50 Shades! The Parody is a hilariously naughty satire that explores the steamy relationship between Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, as seen through the eyes of a trio of girlfriends reading the novel at a book club meeting. As the women devour the novel, the character’s delicious affair comes to life before their eyes. This laugh-out-loud musical features a sassy original score, including such songs “Open Your Book,” “I Don’t Make Love,” and “There Is A Hole Inside Of Me.” Frank The Man. The Music at the Palazzo www.palazzo.com/

Frank The Man. The Music. is the quintessential sa70

Raiding the Rock Vault Celebrates Debut at The New Tropicana - Saturdays www.troplv.com/

“Raiding the Rock Vault” celebrated its debut at The New Tropicana Las Vegas. The show pays homage to rock’s greatest hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. The show’s all-star lineup includes Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Howard Leese [Guitar] (Heart), Robin McAuley [Lead Vocals] (MSG, Survivor), Doug Aldrich [Guitar] (Whitesnake, Dio), Paul Shortino [Lead Vocals] (Rough Cutt, Quiet Riot), Jay Schellen [Drums] (Badfinger, Asia), Andrew Freeman [Lead Vocals and Guitars] (Lynch Mob, The Offspring), Michael T. Ross [Keyboards] (Lita Ford, Hardline), Hugh McDonald [Bass] (Bon Jovi), and outstanding female vocalists Carol-Lyn Liddle (Masters of Rock) and Stephanie Calvert (Starship). Cont on next page

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DEAL ME IN with Mark Pilarski www.markpilarski.com/

Who watches them? Them being the casino Dear Mark: I know that you have clearly stated multiple times in your column that casinos do not cheat. I am still leery of your belief. I guess my question is, who monitors the casino that their slot machines are on the up and up? Jared J. Every state that offers land-based casinos has some form of a gaming regulatory agency that provides you, the casino patron, with protection from playing on a rigged machine. Let’s begin with the machine itself. Each new slot machine goes through roughly a six-month process to be approved before it hits the casino floor. A state’s gaming regulatory agency tests the machine to make sure that it operates randomly by scrutinizing how it selects the reel stops on a slot machine, does a thorough inspection of its source code for any possible problems, and then peeks at the principles behind how the random generation occurs. Only then is the machine placed out in the field (casino) for more testing before final approval. After the proverbial two thumbs up, the manufacturer can then sell that configuration of that slot machine to the casino. Testing then continues once the machine is placed into operation. For starter’s, the machine will run self-tests to make sure it hasn’t been tampered with, plus make sure they run within certain parameters, meaning, it doesn’t pay out too little, or too much. These internal tests also look out for the casino’s best interest in that they make sure the slot machine isn’t susceptible to cheating. In most (if not all) states, machines are also subject to

random spot checks in which someone from gaming verifies that a machine is identical to the approved configuration, has not been tampered with, and the chips in the machine match the reference chips approved by the agency. Agents in the field show up unannounced and armed with a laptop computer that has a database of all the chip signatures. Each chip has a code number that contains all its attributes, including its return percentages. Agents will know on the spot if the chip is legit by inserting the chip into their specialized laptop; it reads the chip and all its contents to certify that it is an approved value chip. Any hanky panky (Tommy James and the Shondells, 1966), and we’re talking the possible loss of a gaming license. Besides, most casinos today are publicly-traded companies not interested in exposing their gaming license to loss with any suspicion of monkey business going on. Furthermore, in some states, casinos can’t even access the logic boards in their machines. Only the gaming authority can either make the change or to witness the swap. Some states do allow casinos to make variations to slot machines under that state’s regulations. By variations, I mean either a paytable modification or a chip swap inside a machine to make it return more or less. As long as “approved” chips are used, and the payback is within the minimum limit set by each state’s law, it is legit. Another reason the slot machine is on the up-and-up is that every machine offered is mathematically in the casino’s favor. It is the way they make their moola, by paying you less than the true odds on every machine on the casino floor. Why cheat? There isn’t any need to swindle you beyond what the state already allows them via the casino hold. They don’t call them One-Armed Bandits for nothin’. Please take into account, Jared, that my above answer is to some degree generalized. Each gaming jurisdiction may use a slightly different approach, but you can rest assured that who’s watching who is watching out for you. Mark Pilarski has spent 36 years in the casino industry, 18 of those working on the inside at seven different Nevada casinos.

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Las Vegas cont The LINQ Hotel & Casino Welcomes First Hotel Guests - Saturdays www.caesars.com/linq

The LINQ Hotel & Casino has opened its doors to the first hotel guests. All hotel rooms and suites contain an interactive system on the TV which gives guests access to hotel amenities. With the click on the TV remote, guests can order room service, housekeeping items, set up an alarm clock, as well as order one of the

many popular board games available to be delivered to the room. Room service from multiple dining outlets at The LINQ Hotel & Casino and Promenade such as Brooklyn Bowl and Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen & Bar are also available. Guests can also access the interactive system from their personal smart phones and personalize their music experience with customized LINQ Hotel playlists on Spotify. In addition to the standard rooms that feature a fresh, modern design with floor to ceiling windows, boasting views of the iconic Las Vegas Strip or the High Roller – the world’s tallest observation wheel – five different suite models are available. BELLAGIO EVENTS: www.bellagio.com Fabergé Revealed thru May 25 - “Fabergé Revealed” showcases 238 rare Fabergé artifacts. A part of the largest public collection of Fabergé outside of Russia, these treasures are synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship, impeccable taste and the rich history of the Russian imperial family from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unique to this exhibition is a small collection of “Fauxbergé” objects – Fabergé look-alikes once believed to be originals. Cosmopolitan EVENTS www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/ The Ice Rink. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas transforms the Boulevard Pool into a winter wonderland, The Ice Rink. Featuring falling snow, ice skating, fire pits and a collection of favorite winter cocktails and seasonal food offerings, the intimate lodge experience returns high above Las Vegas Boulevard. MONTE CARLO YOGA IN THE PLAZA www.montecarlo.com/ Monte Carlo Resort and Casino invites guests to start their Saturdays with stretches and salutations with its newly launched Yoga in the Plaza. Taking place each Saturday at 8 a.m., the hour-long class is designed to accommodate all skill levels and is complimentary for Monte Carlo hotel guests. Yogis are led through a series of poses by instructor Alicia Goldsmith. Monte Carlo provides mats and towels, as well as bottled and cucumber water. After class, participants can continue the healthy start to their day at Sambalatte, the Plaza’s café lounge and espresso bar. The menu includes nutritious breakfast items such as fresh fruit smoothies, veggie quiche, teas and a variety of coffee options. Throughout the winter months, classes will be offered weather permitting and heaters also are provided. 702730-7590.

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Gaming Scene cont Biloxi What’s happening at the Beau Rivage

seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars. The popular Terrace Cafe Terrace Café offers a delicious new twist on café dining. A new menu celebrates classic south-

ern favorites, fresh and healthy alternatives, and a number of savory specialties to satisfy every appetite. Reservations for air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 877-462-2328. www.beaurivage.com

Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Beau Rivage is a beautiful resort destination — very convenient for Tampa Bay area folks looking for either an exciting time, or a relaxing time, or both — the Beau has it all. With a partnership with Vision Airlines, the resort has an exclusive package that includes a round trip non-stop jet flight, ground transfers, and two nights in a luxurious guestroom — starting at only $199 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. PetersburgClearwater Airport. Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevations and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. The newly-remolded course is player-friendly and more strategic. With some bunkers removed, the remaining bunkers have been rebuilt creating a much more strategic course. In addition, 15 of the hallmark live oak trees were repositioned to add to the Fallen Oak experience. A visit to the Beau’s spa and salon will show Epicurean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.” The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and 74

SOUTHERN BREWERS CLUB CRAFT BEER TASTING - Jan 21 - 22. In support of Gulf Coast Craft Beer Week, Beau Rivage will hosts its iconic Southern Brewers Club. On Jan 21 - 22, Beau Rivage will be celebrating all things craft beer. Guests can get a firsthand experience with Mississippi’s growing craft beer culture. Guests can appreciate a variety of specialty brews from the famous Chicago-based Goose Island Beer Company and Beau Rivage brewing partner Crooked Letter Brewery in Ocean Springs, MS. Brewmaster Wanda and Paul Blacksmith, owners of Crooked Letter Brewery, will share insights about their popular local brews. While exploring complimentary featured specialty brews, guests can enjoy live music by local cover band Anderson and Brennen on Wed, Jan 21. The celebration continues on January 22. wher guests can enjoy this southern style social which will feature comparative brew tastings provided by Goose Island Brewing Company. This event also showcases special gourmet pairings prepared by culinary artist Chef Sarah Cormier of Beau Rivage’s Coast Restaurant and a gift for each attendee. UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT

Feb 13 - CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVISITED; Feb 20 - MICHAEL BOLTON; Feb 27 - RON WHITE; March 6-7 - RODNEY CARRINGTON; March 13 - SANTANA; March 20 - ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK; March 27 - MARTINA McBRIDE; April 26 - JACK HANNA.Sept 25 - VINCE GILL

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ArtLines PHOTOGRAPHS OF AND ABOUT AFRICAN AMERCIANS - thru May 3

www.fine-arts.org All exhibitions during the MFA’s 50th anniversary year are inspired by and revolve around the collection. African American Life and Family draws on the Museum’s impressive collection of photography, as well as key loans, and primarily reveals how blacks viewed and presented themselves through images. In 1900, sociologist and civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois created an exhibition of photographs titled The American Negro for that year’s World’s Fair in Paris. He selected images that showed refined, educated, and prosperous African Americans, challenging prevalent views

ily, including many portraits that would have been displayed in the home, provided a way to resist misrepresentation. Snapshots, postcards, portraits, and other typically private photographs became “galleries” of black America— the world hidden from public view or forced into oblivion by the constant flood of stereotypes. In addition to vernacular photography, the exhibition will feature two works by the gifted photographer James Van Der Zee, who captured the growing black middle-class in Harlem through the mid-1940s. Addison Scurlock was a respected portraitist in Washington D. C.; his portrait of Booker T. Washington is a highlight of the exhibition. Charles “Teenie” Harris’s picture conveys the energy of a Pittsburgh jazz club from 1945, and Marion Post Wolcott’s photograph of a juke joint in Mississippi also projects a celebratory mood. They both point to the central role music has played in African American life and survival. African Americans have created much of our country’s most inventive and singular music. MFA, 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-8962667;

and expectations of the time. Exhibiting photographs of and by African Americans introduced visual complexity to counteract deliberate distortion. Negative imagery could be thwarted by pictures of dignity, pride, success, and beauty. Throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, depictions of African Americans in theater, art, and the media often took the form of caricature, which exaggerated and simplified its subjects. Because of photography’s empirical nature, representing a “truthful” image of what was before the camera, photographs can define reality. They also have the power to contest dominant modes of representation when people have control over their own image. The photographs in African American Life and Fam76

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TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell - March 7 - May 31 www.tampamuseum.org

laire on his friend, the painter Edouard Manet). Early on in his artistic life, Esser had decided on landscape photography. The settings for his photography are located primarily in France, a country that became his adopted home of sorts. Producing photography created in accordance with classical compositional principles, Esser has been working for 15 years on the illustrated atlas of a country that seems unaffected by the technological changes that the 19th century brought with it. FMOPA is located at 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602; 813.221.2222.

One of the most popular American artists of the past century, Norman Rockwell (1894–1978) was a keen observer of human nature and a gifted storyteller. For nearly seven decades, while history was in the making all around him, Rockwell chronicled our changing society in the small details and nuanced scenes of ordinary people in everyday life, providing a personalized interpretation—albeit often an idealized one—of American identity. His depictions offered a reassuring visual haven during a time of momentous transformation as our country evolved into a complex, modern society. Rockwell’s contributions to our visual legacy, many of them now icons of American culture, have found a permanent place in our national psyche. TMA - 120 Gasparilla Plaza (Polk Street) Tampa, FL 33602.

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS www.fmopa.org Elger Esser: Combray - thru March 29

In contrast to most other contemporary art photographers, Elger Esser is no “painter of modern life” (Baude-

St. Petersburg’s 2nd Saturday Artwalk www.stpeteartsalliance.org

Over 40 galleries and studios in the Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, Edge District, Grand Central District, and the Warehouse Arts District come together as one arts destination. ArtWalk is Opening Night where many galleries and studios premiere new works. Some are only open on ArtWalk, and many offer demonstrations and refreshments. Plan to drive, walk or take the trolleys to visit the districts of your choice. Free ArtWalk trolleys will encompass Warehouse Arts District and the Grand Central District, The Central Avenue trolley serves the Waterfront, Central, EDGE, and Grand Central Districts. Free parking can be found on 1st Ave N and 1st Ave S from 15th St. to 30th St. and at the Florida Holocaust Museum.

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ArtLines cont

1 + 1 = 1 + 1 and B + W at the Dunedin Fine Art Center - thru March 1 www.dfac.org

BANK OF AMERICA’S MUSEUMS ON US - The First Full Weekend Of Each Month - Feb 7 - 8 www.museums.bankofamerica.com

Bank of America’s Museums on Us offers free weekend access to Bank of America and Merrill Lynch credit and debit cardholders in Tampa and St. Petersburg. The program’s mobile site gives customers access to the full list of markets and museums on-the-go. Participating Tampa Bay area museums are: Florida Holocaust Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Museum of Art. Present your B of A or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card along with a photo ID for free general admission the first full weekend (Sat and Sun) of each month. Cardholders only; guests are not eligible.

Two solo exhibitions, a two-person installation and a themed group show add up to some interesting mathematics at DFAC. Jeff Christ: Private Language. Miamiborn artist, Jeff Christ’s paintings are a force of nature– in scale, process and palette. Vadis Turner’s practice of painting with textiles reimagines abstract paintings as contemporary heirlooms. Ya La’ford + Nathan Beard: Illuminated Silence transforms DFAC’s Gamble Family Gallery. Black + White is all media. This juried exhibition in a limited palette promises to be as illuminating as it is stark. Visit or call 727.298.DFAC for more information.

Florida CraftArt: Living with Mysticism - The Power of Visual Vodo thru March 2 www.floridacraftart.org

The Florida Craft Art gallery is proud hosting a group exhibition of Haitian artists, featuring an overview of some of the finest examples of Vodou Flags, utilizing Sequence and expert beadwork, as well as found object sculpture by Haitian Artist Guyodo. The flags exemplify the use of fine craft as an application in ritual art making that have now become a viable visual art form for commer78

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www.fine-arts.org

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ArtLines cont cial purposes. The sculptural works of Guyodo, showcase the inventiveness and resourcefulness of an artist who gathers found objects to fashion whimsical as well as grotesque figurative statues. Each body of works speaks to the influences of the African diaspora tradition, as well as Catholicism and the practice of Vodou in a contemporary platform.

2nd Annual St. Petersburg Spring Fine Art Festival - thru Feb 1 www.paragonartevents.com/stpete/

The 2nd Annual St. Petersburg Spring Fine Art Festival will be held in North Straub Park adjacent to the Museum of Fine Arts. The Festival unveils original artwork by more than 100 artisans from 25 states and two international countries. Also represented are many local and regional artisans. A tapestry of art will be woven from works in painting, photography, sculpture, metalwork, digital art, jewelry, glass, ceramics, metalwork, mixedmedia, digital art, woodworking – and much more. If you do not find exactly what you want, commission a piece of art made specifically for you. Hours of the Festival are Sat and Sun 10-5. Admission and parking are free.

2 Cool Art Show 2015 - Feb 7 - 8 www.pavaartists.org

This juried fine art and fine craft show takes place from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. Thirty eight juried fine artists will show and sell their work within the Gulfport Casino.The 80

event showcases the artistic work of PAVA’s statewide members. Parking and admission are free for this weekend event. Gulfport Casino 5500 Shore Blvd. Gulfport, Fl. 33707.

Downtown Dunedin Craft FestivalFeb 14 - 15 www.artfestival.com

The Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival Craft returns February 14-15 featuring fine crafters and eclectic exhibits with broad appeal. The array of handcrafted art and affordable items provide a selection of unique and memorable gifts for Valentine’s Day. The artistic media will include folk art, pottery, personalized gifts, handmade clothing, handbags & accessories, handmade cards, leather, stained glass and much more. A Green Market will offer a wide variety of quality plants including exotics, as well as dips and other gourmet items. The prices have been set to suit all budgets. Admission is free and open to the public. Main Street in Downtown Dunedin . Navigational address: 271 Main Street, Dunedin, FL 34698.

Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition - thru Feb 28 www.plantmuseum.com/

The Gasparilla invasion takes over the Henry B. Plant Museum with an exhibit on the rich history of Tampa’s oldest and most funloving community festival. The exhibit, Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition explores Tampa’s premier party, attended by a motley crew of the famous and infamous, the beautiful people and bad dudes. Learn their stories as you explore pirate booty and things of beauty during the city’s only exhibit of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla memorabilia. The exhibit includes coronation robes, ball invitations, programs, crowns and costumes as well as vintage photographs. One wall of the exhibit features the history of Gasparilla ships from 1907 through 1937. Included are rare photographs and interesting maritime facts. Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition will run through February 28.

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ArtLines cont MINIATURE ART SOCIETY 40Th Anniversary Show & Sale thru Feb 15

www.miniatureartsocietyofflorida.com Paintings shown here are actual size!

he Miniature Art Society of Florida is celebrating its 40th Anniversary year, at the Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, Tarpon Springs, Florida, from Jan 18 through Feb 15. You will be amazed by the spectacular display of miniatures – not only paintings but scrimshaw, fired porcelain, and sculpture – including works created by some of the world’s finest miniature artists from around the world. With few exceptions, all of the art is for sale. Approximately 700 works of art will be shown, from 185 artists, in addition to the society’s permanent collection of more than 100 miniatures. Magnifying glasses are available for the complete enjoyment of the small treasures. Entries from 33 states and 10 countries provide a wonderful diversity of subject matter and framing techniques. Of the approximate 900 works of art submitted for entry in the show, a jury of award-winning miniaturists has carefully selected only the very finest for display. Visitors may talk to and observe artists while they work. These artists are willing “Homeward” by Lynn Wade

to demonstrate their techniques, such as oil painting, acrylic, colored pencil or sculpture. Most of the artists create under magnification, using a variety of mediums, methods and very small brushes for paintings. Demonstrators may be from England, Canada, many US states and local Florida artists. The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, 600 Klosterman Road. 727712-5762. Gallery hours:Tues, Wed & Sat 10am – 5pm, Thurs 10am – 8 pm and Sun 1-5. Mon closed.

“Basket Of Peaches” by Jane Mihalik 82

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HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

ocated on the waterfront at Johns Pass, this quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village is Pinellas Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #1 tourist attraction. Over one hundred merchants inhabit the Village with unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants, the local fishing fleet, dolphin watching and shelling tours, boat rentals, parasailing and jet skiing. Plenty of parking: There is metered on-street parking located conveniently throughout the Village, as well as a new state-of-the-art multi-level parking garage adjacent to Bubba Gumps and Hubbards Marina. The beach is a short stroll away. Conveniently located near St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa, and just a short drive to the Orlando area. Open daily!

12901 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, Florida Located on the Gulf-to-Intercoastal pass between Madeira Beach and Treasure Island

(727) 394-0756 â&#x20AC;˘ johnspassvillage.net

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by Dr. Lori Verderame

Jewelry Storage Tips Did you get a piece of jewelry this holiday season? Jewelry is a very popular type of collectible. In addition to sprucing up an outfit, jewelry pieces, precious metals, and gemstones hold their value well in the antiques and vintage marketplace. So, storing these valuables is important. Gold and silver pieces can get scratched when stored

next to each other or next to other pieces in a jewelry box. These precious metals can damage fragile jewelry items like pearls and shells too. Store gold pieces by themselves or in a felt- or velvet-lined box when possible. Gold necklaces ideally should be stored hanging up by their clasp to prevent damage. Gold bracelets should be stored flat when possible. Bangles need their own storage boxes to prevent dents and damage too. Always store pearls separately in a padded case or jewelry compartment. This will prevent damage to the 84

soft cultured pearl’s lustre surface. And, pearls should be restrung as soon as you notice that the individual knots are getting stretched out or loose. You will lose the pearls if the string breaks… I guarantee it. For gemstones set in rings, use ring holders that separate set stones and their settings from one another. This will prevent scrapes and scratches and retain a stone’s clarity, too. Watches should not be stopped when stored. Let the watch run so you do not damage the battery or movement. Store watches flat and use a soft cloth to cover

the dial and protect the crystal face when storing them. When it comes to fine jewelry, protecting your investment goes hand in hand with proper storage. Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel. Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Check out her schedule at www.DrLoriV.com/events. Visit www.Facebook.com/ DoctorLori, Lori Verderame on Google+ or call (888) 431-1010.

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Discover the Beauty

ig Cat Rescue is the largest accredited sanctuary in the world dedicated entirely to abused and abandoned big cats. It is home to over 100 lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars and other species most of whom have been abandoned, abused, orphaned, saved from being turned into fur coats, or retired from performing acts. The sanctuary began rescuing exotic cats in 1992. BCR has 14 species of cats, many of whom are threatened, endangered or extinct now in the wild. Their dual mission is to provide the best home they can for the cats in their care and educate the public about the plight of these majestic animals, both in captivity and in the wild, to end abuse and avoid extinction. BCR has built enclosures in a natural habitat with foliage and shelter on 55 acres in the Citrus Park area of north Tampa. They provide the best nutritional and medical care possible, and have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is supported entirely by donation. BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. 813-920-4130; www.BigCatRescue.org

unken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a bustling city. As St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, this 100 year old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. Feb/March Programs: Feb 21 - Exotic Tropicals and Butterfly Plants. Adding exotics, tropicals and butterfly plants to your landscape, plants will be for sale. March 7 - Family Day in the Garden. Pizza Party in a Pot Gardening Activity, 11:30 AM. Children will create a container garden with herbs and tomatoes and will learn the basics of growing edibles in containers. Pots and plants will be provided, as well as s set of children’s gardening tools. $10 for each container planted, which covers the cost of materials and the tools. Children will take the tools and a completed container garden home. Registration 727-551-3102. Sat, March 7, 11:30 am - Botanical Sketching Workshop. Learn techniques in the classroom, and then move out into the garden to sketch. $10 fee. Bring a sketch pad and pencil. Sat, March 21, 11:30 am, Basics of Bamboo in FL Landscape, Karlyn Bradshaw Island Bamboo. Sat, March 28, 11:30 am, All About Gesneriads, Greg Stych. There will be Gesneriads for sale. Sunken Gardens is at 1825 4th Street N, St. Petersburg, 727-551-3102; www.stpete.org/sunken

A Botanical Experience Awaits You... • Discover the beauty of a 100 year old botanical paradise. • Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, and walk through a butterfly encounter. • Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; $5 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 - 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 86

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Delaware History Trail

www.visitdelaware.com/ The Delaware History Trail has 36 sites throughout the state that showcase its heritage. Among the sites are the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village in Dover, the Delaware History Museum and Old Town Hall in Wilmington, Historic Odessa, the Lewes Historic District, the New Castle Historic District and Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library.